Renaissance Inkwell Calamelli workshop, Italy, Faenza, second half of the 16th

Crespina Faenza, last quarter of the 16th century Maiolica painted in two colors, light blue and yellow, on a thick, rich layer of white enamel. It measures 2.24 in (5.7 cm) in height, 6.10 in (15.5 cm) in diameter. lb 0.55 (kg 0.25) State of conservation: mimetic restoration. The small cup has a raised central “umbone”, a perforated brim and a shaped rim. It rests on a high jutting foot. The "crespina" shape, in some inventories is cited as "tacce de frute" (fruit cups). It was particularly appreciated in the Renaissance and has variants based on the formal types and the different sizes. The decoration, made according to the dictates of the “compendiario” style, used few standardized colors: blue and yellow on a thick white and shiny enamel, deliberately chosen as the colour which was most reminiscent of silver. This choice derived from a trend in creative design of the era: the shapes used in the molds were often taken from metal objects. An idea which would last throughout the Renaissance. The work shows, in the middle of the “umbone”, a winged putto stepping forward while playing a long thin trumpet. The depiction of the putto is fully representative of the repertoire of the Faenza workshops of the sixteenth century. Some specimens with this type of decoration have been published in a volume by Carmen Ravanelli Guidotti: there appears the whole productive repertoire of this fundamental moment of transition between the taste for the “istoriato” style and the great simplification of decoration in the “compendiario” period. This style, in its simplicity, however, saw its expression in a rather varied collection of decorative subjects, including old-fashioned busts...

Sick cup Pasquale Rubati Manufacture Milan, Circa 1770 - 1780 Maiolica decorated in polychrome “a piccolo fuoco” (third fire) It measures: h 2.36 x 7.4 x 7.87 (h 6 x 19 x 20 cm) ...

An elegant French inkwell crafted in gilded bronze in the Baroque style from the 19th century. This luxurious piece reflects intricate artistry and opulence, typical of Baroque-inspired decor. Features: Material: Solid bronze with a rich gilded finish. Design: Features ornate Baroque motifs, including scrolling patterns, floral accents, and elegant detailing. Functionality: Includes compartments for ink wells and a central area for pen placement. Dimensions: Length: 40 cm Width: 22 cm Height: 15 cm Highlights: Artistic Excellence: Exemplifies the grandeur and intricate craftsmanship of 19th-century French design. Collector’s Item: A fine addition to collections of antique writing instruments...

A very unusual porcelain inkwell in the 18th century style, with all three pots intact and a covered lid with a hand-painted porcelain dog. The e...