The handles of this inkwell curl outward in the unmistakable whiplash line of Art Nouveau design, sweeping loops of bronze that seem to grow organically from the wood rather than sit fastened to it, as though the metal itself had been caught mid-motion and left to cool that way. Desk sets like this one belonged to a moment when even the most functional objects on a writing table — the inkwell, the letter opener, the tray beneath them — were reimagined as small works of decorative art, every curve borrowed from the stems and petals of nature rather than the straight lines of the century before. It evokes the atmosphere of a study around 1900, gaslight or an early electric lamp burning low, correspondence still composed by hand, dipped and blotted rather than typed, on a desk that was itself expected to reflect the taste and modernity of the room around it. One can imagine it holding pride of place on a writer's or merchant's desk, used daily yet never merely utilitarian. Brought into a home today, it carries that same sculptural presence into a modern space, useful still, but admired first.
The inkwell stand has a rectangular mahogany-toned wood base mounted with two large scrolled bronze handles, each cast with fanned Art Nouveau foliate and floral motifs. At the center sits a square-cut glass inkwell with a hinged bronze lid, decorated with a geometric inlaid motif. A bone-handled letter opener with a slender blade rests across the base.
This is offered as a single desk set.
Each item is carefully and professionally packed and fully insured for worldwide shipping. All applicable tariffs and import duties are included in the price, so you will not be charged any additional fees on delivery. Returns are accepted within 30 days.
DETAILS
Materials: Bronze, wood, glass, bone (letter opener handle)
Dimensions: 25 x 20 cm / 9.8 x 7.9 in
Style: Art Nouveau desk inkwell with letter opener
Date: Circa 1900
Condition: Good condition
