Inkwells
Late 19th Century English Antique Inkwells
Porcelain, Wood
1890s Italian Napoleon III Antique Inkwells
Porcelain
1820s French Antique Inkwells
Gold
Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Inkwells
Ormolu, Bronze
Mid-20th Century English Folk Art Inkwells
Porcelain
1990s Italian Inkwells
Porcelain
1870s Swedish Folk Art Antique Inkwells
Ceramic
1980s English Vintage Inkwells
Stoneware
1960s French Vintage Inkwells
Chrome
Mid-20th Century English Folk Art Inkwells
Porcelain
Late 19th Century French Late Victorian Antique Inkwells
Brass, Enamel
Late 19th Century German Victorian Antique Inkwells
Bronze
Late 19th Century French Late Victorian Antique Inkwells
Brass, Enamel
20th Century Hungarian Inkwells
Porcelain
1880s French Napoleon III Antique Inkwells
Porcelain
Early 20th Century German Inkwells
Porcelain
1820s English Regency Antique Inkwells
Porcelain
Late 19th Century German Antique Inkwells
Porcelain
19th Century French Antique Inkwells
Ormolu
1910s British Edwardian Vintage Inkwells
Enamel
Late 19th Century French Rococo Antique Inkwells
Bronze
Early 19th Century French Empire Antique Inkwells
Porcelain, Cut Glass
1820s Antique Inkwells
Gold
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.