Rosewood Desk Set with Silver Applications - 19th/20th Century

Exceptional desk set (inkstand) with a dressing table mirror in rosewood with Portuguese silver applications, a piece of great refinement and historical value dating from the transition of the 19th to the 20th century. This set represents the best of Portuguese luxury woodworking combined with the excellence of national goldsmithing.

Provenance and Authenticity:

• Period: Transition from the 19th to the 20th century
• Style: Neoclassical/Eclectic
• Probable Manufacturer: Ourivesaria Cunha or Leitão & Irmão
• Origin: Prestigious Portuguese production

Materials:

• Wood: Rosewood, a noble, dense, and dark wood
• Metal: Portuguese silver with quality chasing
• Mirror: Original period crystal

About Rosewood:

Rosewood is a noble, dense, and dark wood, widely used in Portuguese luxury woodworking for its durability, resistance, and sophisticated appearance. Its dark tone and natural grain give pieces a timeless elegance.

Set Elements:

• Central Tilting Mirror: Richly worked silver frame with floral motifs
• Side Obelisks: Two rosewood pillars decorated with silver friezes
• Inkwells: Two circular containers at the base (inkwell and blotting sand)
• Lids: Decorated in silver with chased work
• Base: Rosewood with decorative silver appliques

Silver Details:

• Mirror frame with chased floral motifs
• Decorative friezes on the obelisks
• Ornamental appliques on the base
• Worked inkwell lids
• Neoclassical elements in relief
• High-quality chasing
• Possible silver hallmarks (eagle or wild boar marks)

Neoclassical/Eclectic Style:

The side obelisks and the symmetry of the composition give the piece a neoclassical character, while the richness of the silver ornaments reflects the eclectic taste of the period. This type of set was a symbol of status and refinement.

Functionality:

• Tilting mirror for dressing table
• Inkwell for writing
• Container for blotting sand
• Prestigious decorative object
• Centerpiece for office or bedroom

Condition:

The set is in good condition, with the rosewood preserved, intact silver applications, and the original mirror. The presence of silver hallmarks and the integrity of the materials significantly increase the value of the piece.

Collector's Value:

Pieces that combine rosewood with Portuguese silver from this period are highly collectible. 

A rare piece that combines excellent craftsmanship, noble materials, and functionality, representing the best of Portuguese luxury object production from the late 19th century.