Bohemian Art Glass Inkwell

Attributed to Wilhelm Kralik Söhne Pattern: Bacillus Date: Circa 1890–1910 Origin: Bohemia (now Czech Republic)

Description

This iridescent glass inkwell exemplifies Kralik’s Bacillus decor, distinguished by its organic, almost microbial aesthetic. The bulbous, ribbed body features a dynamic surface of randomly applied glass threads—known in German as Stäbchensplitter (“bacillus-rod splinters”)—which shimmer in hues of violet, cobalt, and gold. The lid is hinged and topped with a spherical knob of marbled glass in green and yellow tones, set in a gilt bronze collar. The base form, with exaggerated shoulders and crimped contours, is typical of Kralik’s Art Nouveau sensibility—fluid and asymmetrical.

Historical Context

The Bacillus line is part of Kralik’s broader experimentation with iridescent and applied glass techniques during the turn of the 20th century. Some scholars suggest this pattern may have emerged from a collaborative dialogue between Bohemian glassmakers and American studios like Tiffany. Kralik’s work often blurred the line between utility and ornament, and this inkwell is no exception—serving as both a writing implement and a sculptural object.

Wilhelm Kralik Söhne, active until WWII, was known for producing glassware that rivaled Loetz in complexity and innovation. While many pieces were unmarked, their distinctive patterns—like Bacillus, Martelé, and Spiraloptisch—allow for confident attribution through visual analysis and comparison with documented examples.