Bicycle Figural Inkstand

This is an ornate safety bicycle figural inkstand, dating to the peak of the “Bicycle Craze” in the late 19th century, approximately 1890–1895.

Detailed Description

• Design & Theme: The inkstand celebrates the “Safety Bicycle,” which replaced the “Penny Farthing” (high-wheeler) in the late 1880s. Unlike the standard tubular frames of the era, this model features a highly decorative frame cast as intertwined vines and clusters of berries (likely grapes or ivy berries), reflecting the Victorian penchant for botanical motifs and the emerging Art Nouveau style.
• Mechanical Details: The casting captures key innovations of the safety bike: two wheels of nearly equal size, curved handlebars, a saddle, and a detailed chainring and pedals visible on the drive side.
• The Inkwell: The central reservoir is a heavy, cubic clear glass insert with a stepped neck. It sits within an ornate four-legged metal stand with rococo-style scroll feet, which provides the stability needed for the narrow bicycle frame to stand upright on a desk.
• Materials: This piece is likely made of cast spelter (white metal) with a “bronzed” or “gilt” patinated finish. The lid is decorated with matching leaf patterns and topped with a small, pointed finial.

Date

• Date: Circa 1892–1896. The “Safety” design was the height of fashion during these years. By 1900, the bicycle had become more utilitarian and less of a novelty “status” theme for high-end desk accessories.
• Context: These were often sold as souvenirs or luxury gifts for “wheelmen” and “wheelwomen” who were part of the massive social movement around cycling in the 1890s.