Art Nouveau Foliate Inkwell

This inkwell is a classic example of Jennings Brothers art metalware, featuring an Art Nouveau design sometimes referred to in the collector community as the “Green Man” or “Forest Face” inkwell.

The Inkwell:  “Green Man”

This specific model (JB #505) is almost often identified by the Green Man motif.

• Design Features: The central body is cast with a highly detailed, smiling foliate face—a “Green Man”—which is a mythological symbol of nature and rebirth.
• Motif: The surrounding metalwork consists of textured oak leaves and acorns that wrap around the body and extend onto the base, which serves as a small pen tray.
• Details: The lid is hinged and features a matching leaf or acorn finial. This piece retains its original glass insert.

About Jennings Brothers (JB)

Founded in 1890 (some sources say 1891) in Bridgeport, Connecticut, by three brothers (Edward, Henry, and Erwin), the company became one of the most respected American foundries for decorative art metal.

• Reputation: Their motto, “J.B. Signifies the Best,” was more than just marketing. Unlike companies that mass-produced cheap items, Jennings Brothers employed talented sculptors and artists to create pieces that rivaled fine French imports.
• Technique: They specialized in a variety of finishes, including “Ormolu Gold” and “Nouveau Bronze.” This piece is the silver-plated version, which was often marketed for more formal or “French-style” desk sets.
• The Bottom Mark: The mark on this piece (JB 505) confirms its authenticity. The numbers are catalog codes used by the factory to track specific designs.

Dating

Based on the Art Nouveau style and the company’s peak production years, this inkwell was likely made between 1900 and 1915.

The company shifted its focus to war supplies in the early 1940s and ultimately went out of business in 1953. After they closed, many of their original molds were sold off and used to make cheaper, lower-quality replicas. However, this inkwell—with the original sharp casting, hallmarks, and glass insert—is an authentic original from their primary era of excellence.