Antique Victorian Papier Mache Desk Blotter Mop Inlay Gilt Paint

Truly beautiful and very well preserved Victorian papier mache blotter. Blotters were used with 'dip' pens, to absorb the excess ink which liberally flowed from getting all over desks, and from blurring on the paper upon which the author was writing. This blotter is generously decorated with mother of pearl inlay integrated into a floral bouquet with enamel and gilt. The gilt painting at the top and bottom cover is very like that of both Adam's and Jennens and Bettredge. It has mother of pearl rounded buds on all four corners which protect the cover designs from wear when the blotter is fully extended for use, which no doubt helps to explain why the panting and gilt work are so exceptionally well preserved. For clearly this blotter saw use: the only genuine flaw is that the binding in center is worn out on the bottom 1/3 of the blotter. This is a magnificent sample of Victorian decorative art