Antique Grand Tour momumental inkwell
A truly monumental, fine and early patinated bronze inkwell or inkstand probably Italian and dating from the 18th century or earlier.
Superb rich brown patination. Set upon a triform base with clawed paw and acanthus leaf feet. The straight edges with triple mouldings and decorated with acanthus, beading and scrolling, each side centred with a blackamoor's head with a round fruit in his mouth. On the top of the base are superbly cast and finished dolphins, with mouth open and teeth prominently shown. Standing on a fin to each side of the dolphin's head is a child riding the dolphin. Attached to his back is the inkwell in the form of a gadrooned bowl. The circular lid with three female masks rising to an acanthus decorated pedestal with a winged child blowing a trumpet as a finial. Good old threads.
From a private collection in London.
Circa 1780 or earlier.
Dimensions34.4 cms high by 24.4 cms wide by 18.8 cms deep.
£3,450.00
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