Several years ago I had another of this style 19th century French inkwell, desk stand, and sold it out of both shops within just a few minutes, and promised at that time I would search 'til I found one for the second buyer who was disappointed to miss it by only moments. Well, it's taken me over 5 years to find it, but here is another. If only I can figure out who it was I was to notify. But in the meantime, we're thrilled to present this large and impressive desk stand, both its original ink wells intact but for the caps. The arching pen rack is fully intact, as well, and in all this one presents beautifully - even better than the one that sold twice. True, whatever caps once covered those pristine ink pots have gone missing over the 150 or more years since it was made, but wouldn't it be superb to do corks covered in small shells, and use those to stopper and display this charming old treasure. It's what I'd do if I were to keep this one.
Very good to excellent apart from the missing lids, and not a nick or chip or hairline or crack in either of those large half-shell egg-shaped trays or bowls up front, nor any in either of these original inkwells. The metal is a brass alloy that stays brilliant gold in finish, and it has been further worked in repousse and engraved florals. The branches rise and form the pen stand and each branch is in pristine condition, nothing missing. A superb and large old treasure for your desktop. Display with other old French mother of pearl 'egg' items, collections.
