Art Glass Inkwell by Kralik

Two examples are pictured. These Bohemian iridescent glass inkwells were produced by Kralik in the Pampas pattern.

The deep cobalt glass (first inkwell pictured) features purple, green, and magenta highlights. The second inkwell pictured has a lush green iridescent finish with an “oil spot” or “draped” effect. This specific décor as seen on both is a hallmark of Kralik’s “Pampas” line, produced in the early 20th century (circa 1900–1910). While the famous Loetz glassworks produced similar iridescent styles (like their Papillon décor), the specific combination of the “squat bun” glass shape and this exact patented metal lid is a diagnostic feature of Kralik’s production.

Description of the Lid

The lid is a quintessential example of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) metalwork:

• Form: It is a diamond-shaped (square set at an angle) hinged lid with a low-profile thumb-lift.
• Motif: The top surface is decorated with a stylized relief design of three clusters of berries (frequently identified as holly or juniper) on long, sinuous, vine-like stems. The design is organic and asymmetrical, with the stems flowing in graceful “whiplash” curves characteristic of the period.
• Material: It is made of brass with an aged patina.

Markings on the Inside of the Lid

The markings provide a clear timeline and geographic origin for the piece, referring to intellectual property protections in Germany and Austria:

• D.R.G.M. 168183: Stands for Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster. This was a German “utility model” or “small patent” that protected the design or function of a product for a short period (usually three years). It indicates that the lid’s design or its hinge mechanism was registered in Germany.
• D.R.P. 145366: Stands for Deutsches Reichspatent. This is a full German Imperial Patent. Patent #145366 was granted for a specific type of hinged lid mechanism common on these inkwells.
• OE. P. 12735: Stands for Oesterreichisches Patent (Austrian Patent). Since Kralik was based in Bohemia (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire), the manufacturer registered the patent in both the Austrian and German jurisdictions to protect their export markets.