Neoclassical scrivener's office, late 18th - early 19th century.

Neoclassical scribe, late eighteenth century - early nineteenth century.
Silver.
With visible marks on the piece.
Weight: 1.358 g.
Measurements: 21 x 31 x 16 cm.

Writing desk made entirely in silver, consisting of an oval tray elevated on four feet and three main elements arranged symmetrically: two lateral inkwells and a larger central body, topped by a sculptural figure. The whole responds to a fully neoclassical language, characterized by structural clarity and formal balance.

The lateral inkwells have cylindrical bodies with vertical striated decoration, topped by mouths decorated with chiseled laurel wreaths. The central element, of greater height, adopts a truncated cone shape and is crowned with a round figure of a child, holding a tablet or cartouche, providing a marked symbolic and allegorical character to the whole. The whole set is articulated on a tray with an openwork gallery, decorated with repeated geometric and vegetal motifs, which reinforce the ornamental unity of the piece.

The decoration combines smooth surfaces and areas worked in relief, with friezes, grooves and classical motifs of Greco-Roman inspiration, such as garlands, palmettes and laurels. It is a writing desk conceived both as a functional object and as a representative piece, reflecting the refined taste and high technical level reached by the goldsmiths of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.