Samson Paris – Turquoise-blue And Gold Porcelain Inkwell Featuring "love As A Musician" – 19th Century

Antique desk inkwell made of turquoise-blue glazed porcelain with gold decoration, produced by the Samson company in Paris during the second half of the 19th century.

The centerpiece features a winged cupid seated on a pedestal, arms raised, holding two gilded drumsticks. He is clad in a light drape accented with gold fillets.

On either side of this figure are two lidded inkwells, adorned with drapery in relief, punctuated by scattered golden florets and held in place by rosettes. Their circular lids are decorated with foliage scrolls and geometric motifs in gold.

The piece rests on a four-legged base shaped like lion’s paws.

The vibrancy of the turquoise blue, combined with the abundance of gilding and the neoclassical decorative repertoire, evokes the luxury pieces of the 18th century, which were particularly prized in the 19th century.

Founded in Paris in 1845 by Edmé Samson (1810–1891), the Samson company specialized in producing porcelain inspired by the great European and Eastern manufactories. Its workshops notably produced pieces in the style of Sèvres, Meissen, and various 18th-century manufacturers, often characterized by meticulous craftsmanship and rich decoration.

Mark painted on the underside of the base.

In very good overall condition. Please note that one hinge on the inkwell lid needs to be reattached.