Inkwells
1940s Portuguese Vintage Inkwells
Porcelain
1940s Moroccan Mid-Century Modern Vintage Inkwells
Stone
1940s Art Deco Vintage Inkwells
Onyx, Bronze
1930s English Art Deco Vintage Inkwells
Sterling Silver
1940s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Inkwells
Metal
Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Antique Inkwells
Metal
1930s Scottish Vintage Inkwells
Porcelain
Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Inkwells
Bronze
Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Inkwells
Bronze
Mid-19th Century French Antique Inkwells
Gold, Brass
20th Century Swiss Art Deco Inkwells
Gold Plate, Enamel
Late 19th Century Victorian Antique Inkwells
Silver Plate
Late 20th Century German Modern Inkwells
Gold, Stainless Steel
Early 20th Century Egyptian Revival Inkwells
Bronze, Copper
Early 19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Inkwells
Porcelain
1940s Vintage Inkwells
Plastic
1940s Vintage Inkwells
Acrylic
1940s Scottish Vintage Inkwells
Porcelain
1940s Scottish Vintage Inkwells
Porcelain
1940s Scottish Vintage Inkwells
Brass, Silver Plate
1940s Israeli Vintage Inkwells
Wood
1940s Dutch Vintage Inkwells
Spelter
1940s French Vintage Inkwells
Brass
Vintage, New and Antique Inkwells
Now that we no longer need vintage, new or antique inkwells for written communication, these elegant desk accessories make for a distinctive decorative touch in any home office or study.
Prior to the 19th century, the inkwell was an integral part of the writing process. The first fountain pen was patented in 1827. Typewriters found acceptance during the 1880s, and the ballpoint pen, which replaced the inkwell on most desks and writing tables of the era, modernized the way we write. (Later, it would transform how some of us make art.) Today, a well-designed antique or vintage inkwell is a fun, decorative accent for any work area.
If you find yourself working from home today more often than not, why not freshen things up a bit? Small changes can help elevate your workspace: Incremental edits to your interior, such as rethinking your shelving, swapping out your wall decor and adding a touch of the past to your modern-day desktop, can actually make a big difference. Alongside an ornate Art Deco–era desk lamp and an antique paperweight, your inkwell will look right at home and can support your effort to create a happy home office.
Find a collection of unique metal inkwells to suit any taste on 1stDibs or shop by style. Browse a range of Art Nouveau inkwells, Victorian inkwells, Art Deco inkwells and more. Search our selection of inkwells to find the perfect piece for any space.