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Lovely and rare 19th-century French desk accessory/inkwell styled as a miniature ormolu wheelbarrow and bronze bear. The piece features a beautifully sculpted, dark patinated bronze bear gripping the handles of an ornate ormolu wheelbarrow.
The top of the wheelbarrow features hand-engraved brass thermometer dial face. The dial features dual calibration scales in French script: "Centigrade" and "Réaumur".
Grand Tour and Palais Royal Attribution
This beautiful piece is attributed to the luxury boutiques and workshops of the historic Palais-Royal promenade in Paris. During the mid-to-late 19th century, these multi-functional, highly intricate desktop items were premier souvenirs purchased by wealthy travelers completing their Grand Tour of Europe.
Unmarked. To the best of my knowledge likely Circa 1850-1880s
The piece measure about 6”L
PROVENANCE: This piece came from a prominent estate of a lifelong collector.
Condition - scratches and use marks, minor imperfections on glass, minor dints and metal work imperfections. Not sure whether there might have been a lid or no. Patina on brass and bronze. Some darker spots on the lid underside. All imperfections correspond with age.
