In about 1737, a factory was established on the estate of the duc de Villeroy. Some years later it was transferred to Mennecy and later became linked with manufactories at Sceaux and Bourg-la-Reine. It made a wide variety of wares, often decorated in a distinctive pink palette with designs inspired by those of Vincennes. Workers came from numerous other factories, including some particularly talented sculptors.
This inkstand was probably modelled or assembled by Nicholas François Gauron. The ink pot would have sat on a flat base just behind the right arm of the figure. Exquisite porcelain furnishings were an important part of the affluent 18th century interior, particularly in private apartments. Like the dressing table, desks and delicate writing tables could be luxuriously appointed with porcelain accessories.