Antique Inkwell.  19th Century.  Heavy Bronze Japanese Dragon Boat.  Marble Base. France.

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An objet d’art coming out of the Louis-Philippe era, characterized by elegant lines that combine robustness and some restraint . . . and, in this case, an authentic and robust inkwell for your desk.

The inkwell is in the form of a Japanese longboat with two hinged lids to access the ink reservoirs, each reservoir is coated with gold gilt.  Ornamental flowers on handles to open the lids.

Detail, detail, detail ! ! ! !

The longboat is exceptionally detailed both inside and out.  The sole (inside) of the boat has engraved symbols or some ancient language. The boat sits on a marble base with one pen holder and a felt base.  I am including a new pen for this holder.

BOAT:  3″ tall x 14.5″ wide x 2.25 deep.  MARBLE BASE:  19.5″ long  x 5″ deep  x 0.75″  thick.  Circa mid-1800s.

If you want to add some elegance to your desktop with or without the marble base, this is THE item for you!