19th Century French Empire Gilt & Patinated Bronze on White Marble Encrier or Inkwell

Description

A fine 19th c. Empire gilt bronze encrier on white marble base. Exceptional classical motifs and workmanship throughout. Three patinated … more A fine 19th c. Empire gilt bronze encrier on white marble base. Exceptional classical motifs and workmanship throughout. Three patinated bronze relief cast pots with hinged ormolu covers and bases. Two round pots have cobalt liners with polished pontils. The bronze pots sit on a large white marble plinth with gray flecks. The marble has a carved trough for pens, etc. and rests on four gilt bronze feet. The foliate branches on either side of the central oval urn have holes at the top to hold quills. Note the underside of the marble - completely hand carved and the bronze bolts and nuts are handmade. Great overall condition - one of the bolts on the underside is missing and one of the cobalt liners chipped at the rim (does not show when they are in place. These are minor. Fully decorated on all sides so the encrier can sit on your desk and someone sitting on the other side will see pleasing decoration as well - meant to float. Measurements: 12 1/4" long x 6 5/8" deep x 6 3/4" tall. less