Silver Inkwell, 1921

A small silver inkwell made in Birmingham, England, in 1921.

Today, writing requires little more than picking up a pen. There was a time, however, when putting words to paper involved rather more preparation: a pen nib, a sheet of paper, and a small vessel of ink placed together on the desk.

This inkwell was made for just such a moment. Inside, the original glass liner for holding the ink remains well preserved. More than a century later, it can still be used in much the same way it was intended, making it more than simply an object to admire. Its date of manufacture is equally interesting.

By 1921, fountain pens had already become widely available, yet the older practice of writing with a dip pen and ink had not disappeared. This small inkwell belongs to that moment when different generations of writing instruments continued to coexist.

The hallmarks confirm its manufacture in Birmingham in 1921. A maker's mark is also present, although years of wear have made it difficult to identify the maker with certainty. Perhaps its most appealing feature, however, is its size. Rather than a large inkstand intended to occupy the centre of a desk, this is a compact piece that can sit quietly alongside books and notebooks.

It can still be used when the occasion calls for it, or simply enjoyed as a small silver object when at rest. It is rather lovely to think of this little inkwell, once sitting on someone's desk more than a century ago, finding a place on a desk again today. It almost makes one want to dip a pen into the ink and write.

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𓉞 T.C.C Notes

All vintage objects carry natural signs of use and traces of time accumulated over the years. This pair has received an initial polish using silver cleaner, while its naturally developed patina has been carefully preserved rather than excessively removed. To preserve the beauty and longevity of the pieces, frequent or excessive use of silver cleaner is not recommended. When not in use, please store them away from prolonged exposure to air. When needed, gently polish with a soft silver polishing cloth.

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Measurement
Base Ø 6.7cm
Lid Ø 3.2cm
Inner Ø 1.8cm
Height 4cm

Period
1921

Material
Silver

Hallmarked

Origin
Birmingham, England

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