Inkipedia
Jennings Brothers Viking Ship Inkwell (JB 2187)
| Categories | Figural - Inanimate |
| Material | White metal |
| Markings | JB 2187 |
| Manufacturer | Jennings Brothers |
| Origin | United States |
| Date or Era | circa 1915 |
| Measuring | 4 ¼” diameter; 2 ½” high |
This inkwell is a decorative desk accessory manufactured by the Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company (JB) of Bridgeport, Connecticut, identifiable by the JB 2187 casting number on the base.
Design and Construction
- Form: The inkwell has a distinct mounded or domed shape, reminiscent of a low, circular Viking burial mound.
- Material and Finish: It is cast from white metal (spelter or a similar alloy) and finished with a bronze wash.
- Viking Motif: The entire visible surface is molded with the Viking theme:
- Side Panels: The sides of the dome are encircled by a repetitive, high-relief casting of Viking longships under sail, complete with detailed hulls, masts, and sails, separated by vertical pillars or stylized waves.
- Lid: The top of the dome features a circular, hinged lid. This lid is also molded with the Viking theme, incorporating a Viking longship.
- Liner: The inkwell is complete with its original milk glass liner.
Information on Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Co.
The Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company was a prominent American producer of ornamental metal goods, specializing in decorative accessories for the home and office.
| Detail | Manufacturer Information |
| Name | Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company (JB) |
| Location | Bridgeport, Connecticut |
| Active Period | Founded around 1890 and active well into the 1940s. |
| Product Focus | Primarily specialized in decorative metal goods cast from white metal alloys (spelter) and then electroplated with bronze, brass, or copper finishes. |
| Key Products | Bookends, desk sets (like this Viking Ship series), clocks, statuettes, jewelry boxes, and ornamental lamps. |
| Design Style | Their designs were varied, reflecting the popular tastes of the time, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Egyptian Revival, and various historical/figural themes (like the Viking motif). |
| Marking | Pieces are typically marked on the underside with the “JB” initials and a four-digit model number (e.g., JB 2187). |
Sold for $90 in October 2025
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