Rare French Bloodstone Sterling Silver Cherub Mounted Inkwell, Circa 1920

Details

Description

An exceptional French bloodstone and sterling silver mounted inkwell, dating to circa 1920, distinguished by its elaborate sculptural silverwork, richly … Read more An exceptional French bloodstone and sterling silver mounted inkwell, dating to circa 1920, distinguished by its elaborate sculptural silverwork, richly colored polished stone, and finely detailed architectural base. A beautiful example of early 20th century French decorative arts, combining classical ornamentation with sophisticated craftsmanship and an elegant, highly decorative design.

The inkwell features a beautifully polished, deep green bloodstone body with natural reddish inclusions, giving the stone its characteristic rich and distinctive appearance. The spherical vessel is enclosed within an elaborate sterling silver framework decorated with finely modeled winged cherubic figures, cascading floral garlands, scrolling foliage, and delicately worked ornamental borders. The silver mounts are particularly elaborate, incorporating classical motifs and sculptural elements that reflect the refined decorative tastes of early 20th century France.

The upper portion is fitted with a hinged silver mounted lid, surmounted by a beautifully polished domed bloodstone finial. The lid opens to reveal the circular opening of the inkwell, surrounded by a substantial silver collar embellished with a continuous repeating ornamental pattern. The contrast between the richly colored bloodstone and the intricately worked silver mounts creates a striking visual effect, emphasizing the quality and craftsmanship of the piece.

The body is supported by slender silver legs integrated into the surrounding decorative framework, elevating the vessel above a circular pedestal with a finely beaded border. The entire composition rests upon a substantial architectural bloodstone plinth, beautifully shaped with projecting sides and beveled edges. The base is further embellished with elaborate sterling silver foliate mounts, scrolling ornamental details, and four boldly modeled animal paw feet, creating a particularly elegant and balanced composition.

The underside bears impressed **STERLING** and **DÉPOSÉ** marks, together with additional hallmarks. The decorative silver band encircling the body of the inkwell is also stamped **STERLING**. The French DÉPOSÉ marking indicates a registered or deposited design.

The combination of richly polished bloodstone, elaborate sterling silver mounts, and finely sculpted classical figures makes this an especially decorative and unusual example of French antique desk furniture. The careful attention to detail, from the expressive winged cherubs and naturalistic floral garlands to the architectural base and finely modeled paw feet, reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship associated with French luxury decorative objects of the early 20th century.

A highly attractive and distinctive antique inkwell, equally suited for display on an elegant writing desk, in a library or study, or as part of a collection of European silver, hardstone objects, and decorative arts.

**Origin:** France

**Period:** Circa 1920

**Materials:** Bloodstone and sterling silver

**Dimensions:**
Height: 3 inches
Width: 4 inches
Depth: 2 inches

All measurements are approximate.

**Condition:** Good antique condition with age appropriate wear, minor surface marks, and natural variations to the bloodstone. The silver mounts exhibit some tarnishing and patina consistent with age. See less