Paris, Circa 1810 - Large Inkwell With Swans, In Patinated And Gilded Bronze, Empire Period

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Bronze inkwell and pen holder
Ormoulu and patinated bronzes
Dimensions: H. 18; W. 28; D. (cm.)
Paris, late Empire period

Large inkwell forming a pen holder, resting on four lion paws. The rectangular body opens with a drawer on the front, richly decorated with swans and arabesques on a semi-matte background. Two swans facing each other rest on top and frame the bins - and removable lids - used to hold ink and a perfume burner.

A model of imperial taste There is a small collection of models of inkwells with swans made during the Empire. These productions probably stem from designs by the Percier and Fontaine agency, but also from the workshop of Martin-Guillaume Biennais, whose extensive collection, preserved in the library of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, shows the recurrent use of these ornaments. In addition, there are examples with bodies covered in indigenous veneer or ebony and gilded swans facing each other, delivered to the imperial family. One such example is the piece in the Museo Napoleonico in Rome that belonged to Elisa Bonaparte.

Finally, we know of two models with similar bronzes:
- An ebony-veneered ecritoire, without drawers but with large friezes on the front and sides, lot 353 of the Christie's London sale on May 27, 2007
- An inkwell identical to ours, lot 1313 of the Hampel sale on December 8, 2007

Condition report: very minor signs of wear