Vintage Australian Angus & Co Commercial Blue Black Writing Ink Bottle –20 Fl oz

Vintage Australian Angus & Co Commercial Blue Black Writing Ink Bottle – 20 Fl Oz – c.1930s–1950s

Displayed with other items illustration only for sale separately

24 cm tall

10 cm wide

6 cm depth

Angus & Co was established in Melbourne in 1896 by Joseph Armstrong Angus as a manufacturer of inks and adhesives, later becoming a substantial producer of ink, gum and paste. The business began at 112 King Street, Melbourne, subsequently moving its manufacturing operations and establishing works at Northcote.

A wonderfully evocative piece of vintage office and writing history, this substantial clear glass bottle originally contained Commercial Blue Black Writing Ink, manufactured in Australia by Angus & Co. Pty Ltd.

The original dark blue, cream and black paper label remains substantially intact and is particularly decorative, with attractive period typography and illustrations surrounding the bold COMMERCIAL name. The label describes the contents as:

“Commercial Blue Black Writing Ink – Manufactured by Angus & Co. Pty Ltd Australia”

and records the original capacity as 20 fluid ounces, approximately 568ml.

The manufacturer's advertising describes the ink as writing initially in a deep blue colour before changing to a very deep black, intended to flow freely from the pen and remain suitable for long-term written records.

The bottle retains its original dark closure and has moulded manufacturer's markings to the base.

Maker History

Angus & Co. was an Australian manufacturer established in Melbourne in 1896 by Joseph Armstrong Angus. The company became known for producing writing inks, gums, pastes and adhesives, supplying the everyday stationery requirements of Australian offices, institutions and businesses. Similar Angus & Co. ink bottles are preserved within Australian museum collections, including Museums Victoria.

This example appears to date from the first half to middle of the 20th century, probably around the 1930s–1950s.

A fabulous decorative bottle today, particularly appealing for a vintage office, study or writing desk display. It would also make an interesting addition to a collection of advertising, stationery, Australian social history or antique and vintage bottles.

Condition

Good vintage condition with age and use-related wear. The glass appears free from significant chips or cracks. The original paper label survives but has considerable age-related wear, losses, tears, staining and rubbing, all clearly shown in the photographs. There is also age-related wear to the closure. The bottle is empty.

The considerable survival of the original printed label is an important part of the bottle's character and history.

Capacity: 20 Fl. Oz. / approximately 568ml

Maker: Angus & Co. Pty Ltd

Country of manufacture: Australia

Date: Likely c.1930s–1950s

Material: Glass, paper label and original closure

A super piece of vintage Australian commercial history with plenty of authentic, time-worn character.