When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique Art Nouveau Insect-Themed Inkwell & Pen Tray Desk Set – c.1900
A striking antique two-piece writing desk set featuring an elaborate naturalistic insect motif.
The set consists of a round inkwell stand with a removable clear cut/faceted glass ink pot and a separate elongated pen tray.
The pen tray is decorated with two large dimensional dragonflies positioned as pen rests, together with several detailed beetles/insects applied to the surface. The dragonflies retain attractive green and blue painted/patinated details over the gilt metal.
The matching round inkwell stand is decorated with additional dimensional insects and holds a removable clear glass ink pot. The hinged metal lid is topped with a beautifully detailed butterfly finial, continuing the insect theme throughout the set.
The glass ink pot is removable from its metal holder. The glass remains clear and displays beautifully. There is one small chip/nick to the glass near the upper outer edge, as shown clearly in the close-up photograph. Please review this photograph carefully.
The metal surfaces retain an attractive aged gilt finish with naturally developed patina, oxidation, discoloration, spotting, surface wear and areas of verdigris consistent with considerable age. The painted/patinated insect decoration also shows age-related wear and losses.
No maker’s signature or identifying mark has been found, therefore the exact manufacturer and country of origin cannot be confirmed.
Based on its construction, materials and naturalistic insect decoration, the set appears consistent with late 19th to early 20th century decorative desk accessories associated with the Art Nouveau period.
The pen tray measures approximately 8 1/4 inches long (about 21 cm).
The inkwell measures approximately 3 1/4 inches high to the top of the butterfly finial.
This is an especially decorative antique writing set with wonderful three-dimensional insect details — dragonflies, beetles and butterfly — and a beautiful untouched aged surface.
Please review all photographs carefully. They are an important part of the description and show the exact condition, patina, wear and small glass chip.
