Elephant Inkwell
Antique Late 19th Century French Aesthetic Movement Inkwells
Bronze
Antique Late 19th Century Indian Anglo-Indian Inkwells
Ebony
Early 20th Century Danish Art Deco Desk Sets
Alabaster, Bronze
Early 20th Century French Edwardian Inkwells
Marble, Silver Plate, Bronze
Antique 1880s Austrian Other Figurative Sculptures
Bronze
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Antique 1870s French Napoleon III Inkwells
Bronze
Antique Mid-19th Century Indian Anglo-Indian Decorative Boxes
Bone, Ebony
Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Inkwells
Silver
Antique 19th Century German Black Forest Inkwells
Wood
Antique 19th Century French Inkwells
Metal
Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Inkwells
Marble, Bronze
Antique 19th Century English Inkwells
Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Inkwells
Silver Plate
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Antique Late 19th Century Italian Louis XV Sofas
Gold, Gold Leaf
Finding the Right Inkwells for You
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.
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