Rare Cobalt Blue Opaline And Gilt Bronze Inkstand, France, Circa 1830

A cylindrical desk inkwell in cobalt-blue opaline, decorated with a gold-enamelled frieze of garlands of flowers and leafy branches, topped by a chiselled and gilded bronze mount with a gadrooned design, opening to reveal three circular compartments and two pen holders, and fitted with a central handle in the form of a movable laurel wreath. It is complete with its three original removable cups (two inkwells and an hourglass-shaped powder dish with a perforated lid), each with a rim enhanced with gilded metal.
France. Charles X period (19th century, c. 1830).
H_10.5 cm
Very good condition.

During the Restoration and the reign of Charles X, writing sets and writing desk accessories underwent a period of refined development amongst the French bourgeoisie and aristocracy. Crystal manufacturers (such as Baccarat and Le Creusot) distinguished themselves through the creation of opaline glass in deep colours, notably ultramarine blue and cobalt blue, which contrast superbly with the matt and glossy finishes of the gilded bronze mountings. The opulence of hot-applied gold enamel in delicate floral friezes is a major aesthetic hallmark of this period, marking the transition towards the troubadour style and the Rocaille taste.

Our piece follows in the tradition of the writing sets and drawing-room inkwells of the first half of the 19th century, offering a comprehensive and rare testament to the refinement of the decorative arts during the reign of Charles X.