Kralik Art Glass Inkwell

This green iridescent art glass inkwell is a production of Wilhelm Kralik Söhne (often simply called Kralik), a prominent Bohemian glassworks.

Markings:

The numbers stamped on this inkwell’s stylized leaf-shaped lid are official European design registrations from the early 20th century:

• D.R.G.M. 168180: This stands for Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster (German Reich Registered Design). It indicates that the design or functional mechanism of the lid was officially protected in Germany.
• D.E.P. 10585: This is a patent mark, referring to the Deutsches Reichspatent (German Imperial Patent) or the Austrian equivalent (O.E.P.).

About the Maker: Wilhelm Kralik Söhne

• Origins: Founded in 1815 in Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), the firm became Wilhelm Kralik Söhne in 1841. It was a major rival to Loetz, often producing similar high-quality iridescent art glass.
• Style and Period: This piece is a classic example of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil), dating to approximately 1900–1910.
• Technique: The iridescent finish—often called “Pampas” or “Greta Papillon”—was achieved by applying metallic salts to the glass while hot, creating a shimmering, oil-spot luster that varies from green to blue and gold.

Distinguishing Features

• Drip-Catcher Form: The square, “squat” form with an integral wide flange served as a functional tray to catch ink drips and hold pens.
• Glass Insert: This piece retains its original clear glass reservoir.
• Attribution Note: Because Kralik rarely signed their glass, collectors rely on these specific metal hardware markings and unique decors to differentiate their work from competitors like Loetz, Rindskopf, or Pallme-König.