A Gilt Bronze Inkwell in the Form of a Lion with a Top Hat

Circa mid 19th century, liekly English, comprised of molded gilt bronze with a hinged top hat lid and fitted metal insert and mounted to a black marble base, not signed, marked VI to rim.

6 in.

Private Collection, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Solder repair to hinge, missing a screw at the rim, rubbing to gilt patina, minor chipping to base.