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Sarcophagus-shaped inkstand
English (London)
about 1810
Medium/Technique
Rootwood and ebony, inlaid with brass, gilt-bronze mounts
Dimensions
Height (in open position) x width: 14 1/2 x 17 in. (36.8 x 43.2 cm)
Diameter: 203.2 mm (8 in.)
Diameter: 203.2 mm (8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Horace Wood Brock
Accession Number2007.1002.1-3
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsFurniture
DescriptionThis inkstand in the form of an ancient Roman sarcophagus incorporates inlaid brass decoration in the French manner and features the Order of the Garter on the lid, suggesting a royal connection.
Inscriptions"Honi soit qui mal y pense"
(shamed be he who thinks evil of it —motto of the Order of the Garter)
(shamed be he who thinks evil of it —motto of the Order of the Garter)
ProvenanceRandolph (dealer), Suffolk; sold by Randolph to H. Blairman and Sons, London [see note 1]. Acquired on the London art market by Horace Wood Brock, New York; 2007, gift of Horace Wood Brock to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 23, 2008)
NOTES:
[1] This may be the inkstand illustrated by Martin Levy, "Taking up the Pen," Country Life 186, no. 17 (April 23, 1992): p. 62, fig. 6. Mr. Levy has confirmed that Blairman had acquired two similar inkstands a few years apart.
NOTES:
[1] This may be the inkstand illustrated by Martin Levy, "Taking up the Pen," Country Life 186, no. 17 (April 23, 1992): p. 62, fig. 6. Mr. Levy has confirmed that Blairman had acquired two similar inkstands a few years apart.