Antique French Bronze Desk Standish – Inkwell Set with Figural Mask Detail, c. 19th Century
A finely cast 19th-century French bronze desk standish, featuring a richly ornamented rectangular base with paired lidded inkwells, each raised on ornate tripod legs and adorned with detailed Renaissance-style masks and openwork foliate scrolls. This beautifully executed ensemble includes the original bowler hat–shaped bronze lids, a whimsical and uncommon feature that adds charm to the classical structure.
At the center sits a vertical pen rest or quill holder in matching cast bronze, flanked by the inkwells which are removable and perfectly seated into the decorative tray base. The entire platform rests on four bun feet, with raised ends and repeating engraved scrollwork across the tray.
Origin: Likely French, c. mid-to-late 19th century
Material: Cast bronze with aged patina
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Wear consistent with age, with gentle patination and minor marks adding character. Lids fit properly; all elements are present and stable.
A superb decorative and functional piece for collectors of antique writing instruments, bronze objets d’art, or refined Victorian-era desk accessories
Antique French Bronze Desk Standish – Inkwell Set with Figural Mask Detail, c. 19th Century
A finely cast 19th-century French bronze desk standish, featuring a richly ornamented rectangular base with paired lidded inkwells, each raised on ornate tripod legs and adorned with detailed Renaissance-style masks and openwork foliate scrolls. This beautifully executed ensemble includes the original bowler hat–shaped bronze lids, a whimsical and uncommon feature that adds charm to the classical structure.
At the center sits a vertical pen rest or quill holder in matching cast bronze, flanked by the inkwells which are removable and perfectly seated into the decorative tray base. The entire platform rests on four bun feet, with raised ends and repeating engraved scrollwork across the tray.
Origin: Likely French, c. mid-to-late 19th century
Material: Cast bronze with aged patina
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Wear consistent with age, with gentle patination and minor marks adding character. Lids fit properly; all elements are present and stable.
A superb decorative and functional piece for collectors of antique writing instruments, bronze objets d’art, or refined Victorian-era desk accessories