Dog on a Stump

This figural inkwell is made from hand-painted cast spelter metal.

Description

• The Subject: A small dog—perhaps a Terrier or Pug—sits at attention on top of a tree stump.
• The Inkwell: The top of the stump is a hinged lid that opens to reveal the glass insert.
• Integrated Pen Holder: Two broken-off “knots” or branches protruding from the sides of the stump are designed as a naturalistic pen rest. A dip pen would be cradled horizontally across these two points when not in use.
• The Finish: The piece features a “cold-painted” finish, meaning it was painted after casting rather than having the colors fired in a kiln. The mossy green accents on the textured bark and the dog’s brown and black coat are characteristic of this era’s novelty metalwork.

Origin and Manufacturer

• Country of Manufacture: Most of these high-relief figural inkwells originated in Austria or Germany for export to the British and American markets. Similar “tree stump” designs were also popular in French Belle Époque metalwork.
• Estimated Age: Circa 1880–1900. This was the height of the “Animalier” movement, where realistic and often anthropomorphic animals were used for domestic objects.