World War I-Era Commemorative Inkstand

Description of the Inkstand

• Materials and Construction: The inkstand is cast from white metal, a common term for spelter (a zinc alloy) often used for decorative objects in the early 20th century. The casting is highly detailed, showing surface features like rivets and hatches on the vehicle.
• The Armored Car: The central element is a realistic miniature of a French armored car. Based on its appearance, including the distinct shape of the body, wheels, and especially the angular, rotating turret, it is a detailed representation of the White-Laffly armored car, a key vehicle used by the French Army during World War I.
• The Base and Pen Tray: The armored car rests on a rectangular base with a pen tray in the front. The base is also detailed with a small, hinged helmet that serves as the cover for the inkwell (missing insert).
• Inscriptions:
  • A plaque on the rear of the pen tray reads “Camp de Mourmelon,” which refers to a major French military training and staging camp.
  • The underside of the base is marked “Made in France 2030.” The number “2030” is likely a pattern or production number.
  • The base is also signed “A. Ouveb.”