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Crystal inkwell with silver plated hammered lid, star base

Artist Unknown

Artwork Details

Crystal inkwell with silver plated hammered lid, star base
1875-1975
Artist Unknown
glass, metal
3 9/16 x 2 9/16 x 2 9/16 in. (9.05 x 6.51 x 6.51 cm)
Gift in loving memory of Donald Maxwell Robiner from his family
2010/1.227

On Display

Not currently on display

Description

Subject Matter:

As with most objects of daily use, inkwells could be modest and utilitarian or more fanciful, the latter employing lavish use of precious materials to reflect and enhance the status of the possessor. Inkwells in the UMMA collections demonstrate a rich variety of materials, including silver, crystal, ceramic, and metal. Some pre-date the emergence of the fountain pen, and many mark the transition from a quill or nib pen to the convenience of the pocket pen commonly found today. Inkwells are avidly collected by those who value the artistry that went into the creation of a beautiful object for everyday life

Physical Description:

This is a crystal inkwell with a silver-plated cap. The bottle has a cylinder shape with vertical fluting, edges pointed on the base to create the impression of a star. The hammered lid is shaped like a mushroom, with designs on top and an engraved collar with a beading pattern around the edge.

Usage Rights:

If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.