African Man Wearing a Panama Hat

An inkstand in the form of an African man with a cape around his neck, forming a pen tray. His Panama hat is hinged at the back and opens to reveal the inkwell. His eyes are painted, and he wears hoop earrings.

A painted example of this inkwell sold on eBay for $655 (not including postage) in July 2025. The seller, Jane Miles Shop, is in England. I’ve added pictures that were used for the eBay listing. It’s difficult to make an accurate assessment just from pictures, but a “caution bell” rang that this painted piece may not be old, but of modern production. Here is why:

• The paint is absolutely perfect – not a blemish to be found.
• The mark “BERG” is stamped in capital letters and prominently displayed on the neck. Bronze marks on older pieces are usually marked on the underside or otherwise discreetly displayed.
• The hinge is bulky,
• There is no insert.
• The seller has other items for sale that are thought to be modern day production.
• Many of the modern-made bronzes we’ve encountered come from England.