Vintage, May be older, small travelling ink well with original glass ink well !! This lovely little ink well would look great in a desk etc ( we have 2 which we may sell together. Please contact us for pricing etc).
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Some age related wear - may have been part of a bigger set.
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4 cm wide
5 cm tall
2 cm depth
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Traveling inkwells became popular during the Victorian era with the rise of affordable travel like steamships and railroads, and were designed with secure, screw-on lids to prevent leaks. They were made from materials like glass, metal, or gutta-percha and were carried by travellers, military officers, and emigrants, sometimes in portable writing desks or campaign chests. Traveling inkwells also served as popular, fashionable souvenirs, often shaped like landmarks or other novelties.
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Key developments in traveling inkwell history
Ancient origins: The concept of holding ink dates back to Ancient Egypt, but these were not portable travel versions.
Victorian era boom: The Industrial Revolution made travel more accessible, creating a need for portable writing supplies.
Secure design: Traveling inkwells featured secure, screw-on lids to prevent spills.
Variety of materials: They were made from materials like glass, metal, and gutta-percha.
A common accessory: They were carried by travelers, military officers, and emigrants for use on the road or in new settlements.
Souvenir culture: Traveling inkwells became popular souvenirs, often shaped like famous landmarks, animals, or other novelty items.
Decline in use: The invention of the fountain pen and later the typewriter made the portable inkwell obsolete, leading to its decline in the early 20th century.
Legacy: Today, traveling inkwells are sought after as collectible antiques, admired for their craftsmanship and historical significance.