1930's Pair of Brass Egyptian Revival Sphinx Inkwells
Egyptian Revival (1920s–30s) refers to a decorative style rooted in ancient Egyptian imagery, reinterpreted through the clean geometry and graphic clarity of Art Deco.
Its popularity surged after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, influencing design across jewellery, sculpture, furniture, ceramics, and metalwork. Rather than literal copies, motifs such as lotus flowers, scarabs, winged figures, and stepped forms were stylised, flattened, and made symmetrical — aligning Egyptian symbolism with the modernist language of the interwar period.
These were most likely little souvenir survivors, either from Giza or wider Cairo, for tourists visiting during the movement. The patination and oxidation of the brass is lovely and their crude little faces still coming through.
Still in working order nearly 100 years later!
Condition: Excellent - old repairs to the bases
Size: W 2.5cm x L 10cm x H 4.5cm
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