Mickey Mouse Novelty Inkstand

This desk accessory features a figural representation of Mickey Mouse in a seated, enthusiastic posture, made from celluloid (a type of early plastic).

• Material: The inkstand is made of celluloid, an early, lightweight thermoplastic. Its durability and low production cost made it ideal for novelty items and toys in the early 20th century.
• Design and Action: Mickey’s characteristic features are present, including his large ears, short pants, and oversized gloves. The functional element is cleverly integrated into his pose:
  • Mickey’s gloved hands are hinged and lift upwards, acting as the cover for the twin inkwells underneath.
  • The base contains two recesses designed to house small inkwell liners.
• Aesthetic: The piece is painted in vibrant colors typical of the early Disney character.

Age, Origin, and Mickey Mouse Debut

Estimated Age: 1930s

Based on the character’s design and the use of celluloid, this inkstand was most likely made in the 1930s.

• Manufacturing Context: The 1930s were the boom years for Mickey Mouse merchandise following his initial success. The material, celluloid, was phased out of favor for other plastics like Bakelite and ultimately modern plastics by the 1940s due to its flammability.
• Origin: Japan: During the 1930s, Japan was a major producer of small, collectible, licensed celluloid Disney figures and novelty items for export to Western markets. These items were often marked simply “Made in Japan” or not marked at all.

Mickey Mouse’s Worldwide Debut

Mickey Mouse did not debut worldwide simultaneously, but his breakthrough was in November 1928.

• Date: November 18, 1928
• Film: Steamboat Willie
• Significance: While Mickey Mouse first appeared in a test film (Plane Crazy) earlier that year, Steamboat Willie was the first sound-synchronized cartoon featuring the character and marked his official, successful debut. This date is considered Mickey’s birthday and the moment he became an international sensation.