Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the crab inkwell you’re looking for at 1stDibs. A crab inkwell — often made from
metal,
bronze and
ceramic — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a crab inkwell — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. A crab inkwell is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in
Art Nouveau,
Art Deco and
Victorian styles are sought with frequency. You’ll likely find more than one crab inkwell that is appealing in its simplicity, but
Tiffany Studios and
Edmond Lachenal produced versions that are worth a look.
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.