Therm-O-Dial Double Inkstand

This double inkstand is a functional desk set manufactured by the Schaeffer & Budenberg Manufacturing Company of Brooklyn, New York. Known as a Therm-O-Dial (or sometimes a Thermo-Vane), this piece was designed to combine precision scientific instrumentation with decorative art.

Description

• Central Figure: The centerpiece is a cast metal Native American figure depicted in a seated position, smoking a pipe. This figure serves as a decorative finial atop the central thermometer housing.
• The Thermometer: The heart of the stand is a bi-metallic dial thermometer. Unlike traditional mercury thermometers, this used a coiled metal strip that expanded or contracted with temperature changes to move a pointer across a Fahrenheit scale.
• The Base and Inkwells: The heavy base is made of spelter (base metal) with a brass-toned finish. It features two recessed areas designed to hold glass inkwells with lift-off lids.
• Missing Component: This inkstand is missing one of its glass inkwells.

Manufacturer and Name

• The Maker: The Schaeffer & Budenberg Mfg. Co. was a renowned producer of steam gauges and industrial thermometers. Originally a German firm, they established their Brooklyn factory in 1889.
• The Brand: These desk sets were marketed under the names Therm-O-Dial and Thermo-Vane. While the “Thermo-Vane” models often featured a distinctive red “flag” or vane-style pointer, the “Therm-O-Dial” versions typically utilized a more traditional clock-like dial face.

Age and Origin

• Estimated Date: Circa 1915–1925.
• Context: These items were particularly popular in the early 1920s during the “Art Deco” and “Egyptian Revival” era, though this specific piece with the Native American motif reflects the American Folk Art influence common in the same period.
• Location: All of these sets were stamped as being made in Brooklyn, New York, USA.

Identifying Characteristics