Atlantic City Souvenir Inkwell

This is a charming piece of Victorian Souvenir China, dating to the turn of the 20th century (c. 1895–1910).

Items like this were sold in gift shops along the famous boardwalks of seaside resorts like Atlantic City, New Jersey, during the “Golden Age” of postcards and travel souvenirs.

1. Visual Description

• Form: The inkwell features a “tower” or “capstan” design with a wide, scalloped base. It is constructed in four separate parts:

1. The Base: A wide tray with molded scrollwork.
2. The Collar: A flared cylindrical neck that seats into the base.
3. The Insert: A small, removable white porcelain cup that held the ink.
4. The Lid: A fitted cover with a finial.

• Decoration: The piece is decorated with a mix of transfer-printed decals and hand-painted accents:

• • Text: It reads “From Atlantic City” across the front. The word “Atlantic” is in a gold Gothic-style font, while “From” and “City” are painted over pink scroll motifs on the sides.
  • Florals: The front of the tray features a transfer decal of yellow and blue wildflowers (likely pansies or wild roses).
  • Accents: The molded rims and scroll details are highlighted with gold gilding, which shows some age-appropriate wear.

2. Age and Origin

• Age: Circa 1900 (1890–1910). The specific style of lettering, the pink “luster” paint, and the floral transfer decals are characteristic of souvenir porcelain produced during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras.
• Origin: Although marked for an American city, this porcelain was likely made in Germany or Austria.
  • Prior to World War I, Germany produced vast quantities of “fairing” china and souvenir wares for the American market.

3. Historical Context

In the late 1800s, Atlantic City was the premier vacation destination for Americans on the East Coast. Tourists would purchase these “fancy goods” to display in their parlors back home as proof of their travels. This inkwell was a decorative “cabinet piece” – meant to be looked at as much as used.