19th Century French Napoleon III Period Bronze Inkwell

19th Century French Napoleon III Period Bronze Inkwell is a collector's dream come true!  Incredibly well preserved, it even survives with its original porcelain ink reservoirs.  The design is intricate, cast in solid bronze, and featuring a wide variety of Renaissance Revival motifs.  Lions' heads protect the inkwells themselves, with heavy hinged lids adorned with intriguing scrolls and foliates in an arched cap.  The tray features amazing detail, including handles on both sides, and an extension in the front onto which one can lay pens.  Interesting shell patterns create borders all around the extension, centered with an angel's likeness flanked by a pair of winged cherubs.  On the main tray, two lovebirds help themselves to a Grecian urn bursting with fruit.  A perfect gift for the journalist or author in your family!
Circa 1870s
Measures 3.5H x 11W x 6D