An unusual and rare desk item used for moistening stamps and envelopes manufactured in Germany, around 1900 by Hermetos the patentee
It's has a hollow porcelain handle and decorated with sprigs of flowers and gilded edges
It contains a small sponge in one end which is moistened  by a small amount of water, contained in the handle. This is then used to dampen stamps ect 
It is contained in the original box, bearing the manufacturers logo
 
Condition. :  In good condition, no ware to decoration, it's has the original sponge and box
 
Dimensions:  10 cm. X.