Large Antique French Gilt Ormolu & Solid Cut Crystal Figural Inkwell

Large Antique French Gilt Ormolu & Solid Cut Crystal Figural Inkwell

An outstanding and large French Napoleon III gilt dore bronze and quality cut crystal inkwell, embellished in neoclassical ornamental encasing. Solid, heavy, wheel cut crystal of superb quality and clarity with beveled edges. The quality and finesse of the crystal body is attributed to a major glass house, likely an old unsigned Baccarat, as the cristallerie used paper labels from 1860 on, which often got lost, worn or washed away, and did not use their acid etched signature until 1936. Decorated with an encasing of reticulated figural ornamental appliqués in outstanding neoclassical Empire styling, consisting of finely detailed Grecian laurel wreaths and mythological hippocamp figures. The hinged lid embellished by exquisitely detailed flowers and Napoleonic bees, quite a charming motif. Opens to reveal an inner glass ink pot or insert. Mounted onto a gilt ormolu footed base, patterned by a frieze of laurel and resting atop four scrolling feet. In good to excellent condition of its age, having no chips or cracks to the crystal, the gilding is mostly intact with little to no wear. A gorgeous piece, one perfect to add to a collection of Empire style decor and great to display on any office desk or library. Measures an impressive 7" in length from foot to foot x 5 1/2" width x 4 3/4" tall.

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Item ID: JR-1046

$900 USD SOLD