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Square cut crystal electric blue pyramid shaped inkwell

Artist Unknown

Artwork Details

Square cut crystal electric blue pyramid shaped inkwell
1875-1975
Artist Unknown
glass, metal
2 1/8 x 1 3/8 x 1 3/8 in. (5.5 x 3.5 x 3.5 cm)
Gift in loving memory of Donald Maxwell Robiner from his family
2010/1.238

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 blue crystal glass inkwell with a dark metal collar. The body has a cube shape with cut corners. The lid is a four-sided pyramid with cut corners.

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.