Antique cold-painted bronze and marble inkstand with camel

This figural inkstand combines exemplary Austrian cold-painted bronze elements with a stunning footed marble base, creating a truly unusual piece.

In the centre of the piece stands a camel with an Arab rider. The figure is dressed in typical Orientalist clothing, rendered in gold and red, and exceptional carving detail can be seen in his robes even on this minute scale. A singular rope reign attaches the camel to his rider, and the camel is posed in motion with an inquisitive expression. Small colourful details show the skill of this bronze’s maker, including the patterned saddle and green noseband of the camel. The underside of the camel’s body is also stamped ‘AUSTRIA’.

On each side of the figure are two bronze shrubs, again expertly carved to recreate the foliate and rocky textures. The upper leaves of each of these open to reveal an inkwell, with detachable metal liners inside, making the inkstand functional. Between the two inkwells is a penholder, the top of which is made from ebonised wood and the bottom from metal.

All four of these decorative and functional pieces are surmounted on a stunning black marble slab, which features brown and white veining throughout. The neutral colours of the base perfectly match the tones of the pieces it supports. The slab stands on top of four spherical metal feet in the outermost corners.  

Showcasing the exceptional quality of the cold-painted bronze pieces made in Austria at the beginning of the 20^th century, this masterful creation would make a wonderful desk piece or collector’s item.