Antique 19c Papier Mache & Mother of Pearl Inlay Blotter Arabian Scene

Antiques : Desk & Writing Accessories

 

Truly a beautiful Victorian papier mache ink blotter, decorated with mother of pearl inlay integrated into a hand painted Arabian scene. Blotters were used to absorb the excess ink from 'dip' pens to prevent blurring and smudging on a paper. Four rounded mother or pearl buds accent each corner of the front and back panels, protecting the cover designs from were. Possibly French or English in origin. Two men and a merchant are portrayed at the corner of the painting, wearing brightly colored striped robes of green, red and yellow, with mother of pearl inlaid accents. They are all surrounded by an indoor scene of archways and windows, balconies and stairs, even a black oil lamp descends from the rafters in the background. The whole piece is beautifully painted, with bright vivid colors and excellent detail, from the faces of the men to the lovely use of light illuminating from the top window! Light pink blotting paper lines the interior. The blotter measures 14 1/8" in length and about 10 1/4" in width. Condition: There is some paint wear and nipping to the corners. The paper lining the interior does show tear and wear from use.

Item ID: MP-336