Austrian cold-painted horse head inkwell, circa 1900

A superb Austrian inkwell depicting a finely sculpted horse head enhanced with cold-painting, a technique popular in the late 19th century. This rare model, made around 1900, illustrates the virtuosity of Viennese artisans, who were able to realistically capture the expression and movement of animals. The inkwell cleverly conceals its practical utility behind a sculptural work of art.

19th century

Portrait of a man in a “banyan” surrounded by André Bouys (1656-1740)

The banyan, inspired by oriental dressing gowns, was worn for its comfort and casual elegance.

The subject’s richly decorated orange silk scarf and silver-embroidered vest illustrate this fashion well. This style reflects the influence of cultural and commercial exchanges with the Orient, as well as the importance given to appearance and social status in the society of the time.