Bronze Ink Blotter Appraisal

Vintage Bronze and Specimen Marble Ink Blotter

This is a vintage rocker-style ink blotter composed of cast bronze and a distinctive specimen stone top, likely jasper or a highly figured agate/marble. The item features a heavy, bronze-finished base with a curved bottom used for absorbing excess ink from paper. The handle and top frame exhibit high-quality relief work, particularly on the grip of the handle which displays an ornate floral and foliate motif, consistent with the Art Nouveau or Aesthetic movements of the late 19th to early 20th century. The central decorative panel is a rectangular slab of polished stone showing a dramatic contrast between creamy white and deep reddish-brown mineral inclusions. The bronze elements show an aged patina with some darker oxidation in the recessed areas of the carving, adding depth to the design. In terms of condition, there is visible surface wear to the bronze edges and corners, and some minor verdigris or corrosion is visible where the handle meets the base. The stone insert appears intact without major fractures, though there is some light accumulation of dust and debris along the inner trim. This piece reflects a high level of craftsmanship, combining functional desk utility with decorative luxury materials, likely dating between 1890 and 1920.