Antique German Porcelain Inkstand With Schneeballen Decoration, Saxony, C.1800

This antique German porcelain inkstand, attributed to Saxony and dating to circa 1800, is a refined example of early European desk ware. The square base rests on four gilt ball feet and is decorated with delicate floral and rocaille painting. At the centre is a cylindrical ink well.

The pyramidal cover is densely covered with Schneeballen decoration, created from hundreds of tiny applied porcelain rosettes, each individually modelled and attached by hand. The cover is surmounted by a stylised orchid-type flower. The unusual pyramidal form and finely executed decoration make this inkstand a distinctive decorative object from the turn of the 19th century.

Measurements
Height (assembled): 19 cm
Width: 10.8 cm
Depth: 10.8 cm
Weight: 832 g

Condition
Base with losses and chipping to applied rosettes at the corners; one corner lacks its rosette. Fine hairline within the ink well. Cover in very good condition with the majority of rosettes intact.