Name/Title
Glass Inkwell & quill holderEntry/Object ID
100222Scope and Content
(AI)The Glass Inkwell: The heavy, molded clear glass reservoir in the center was designed to hold the liquid ink used for dip pens. It's missing its original metal lid, which would have typically swung open on a hinge to keep the ink from drying out or collecting dust.
Key Features
The Stand: Crafted from metal (most likely cast iron, bronze, or white metal with a dark patina), the stand features an elaborate base with four small feet.
The Horseshoe & Horse Head: The striking vertical backrest is shaped like a horseshoe (traditionally a symbol of good luck) and is topped with a detailed relief of a horse's head.
The Ink Reservoir: In the center sits a square, heavy cut-glass or pressed-glass inkwell bottle.
The Lid: The hinged lid covering the inkwell appears to be made of metal or potentially a decorative material like celluoid or bakelite, featuring a small central medallion or insert.
Age and Style
Pieces like this were incredibly popular during the Late Victorian to Edwardian eras (roughly the late 1800s to early 1900s). Equestrian themes were highly fashionable for library, study, and desk accessories during this time, often used by sporting enthusiasts or as decorative statements.
A Cool Hidden Detail
If you look closely at the inside curve of the horseshoe, those little protruding metal tabs or hooks aren't just for decoration—they were originally designed as a pen rest to cradle a dip pen when it wasn't in use!
