Encrier Empire
Antique 1830s French Inkwells
Marble, Ormolu
Antique 19th Century French Empire Inkwells
Bronze
Antique 19th Century French Empire Inkwells
Bronze
Antique Early 19th Century Russian Empire Inkwells
Malachite, Bronze
Antique 1870s English Empire Revival Animal Sculptures
Ormolu
Recent Sales
Antique 19th Century French Inkwells
Marble, Ormolu
Antique 19th Century French Empire Inkwells
Marble, Bronze
Antique Early 19th Century French Empire Inkwells
Bronze
Antique 19th Century French Inkwells
Marble, Ormolu
Antique 19th Century French First Empire Desk Accessories
Ebony, Amboyna
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Antique 15th Century and Earlier African Natural Specimens
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20th Century Serving Pieces
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Antique Late 19th Century French Belle Époque Wall Clocks
Bronze
20th Century French Louis XVI Settees
Fabric, Satin, Silk, Wood
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Antique Late 19th Century French Belle Époque Porcelain
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Antique 19th Century Unknown Other Sheffield and Silverplate
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Antique 19th Century French Gothic Mantel Clocks
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Antique 19th Century French Napoleon III Crystal Serveware
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Early 20th Century American American Colonial Tea Sets
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Antique Late 19th Century Italian Baroque Benches
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Antique 1780s English Chippendale Sofas
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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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