Bronze Elephant Figural Pen Wipe

This is a decorative and functional figural pen wipe cast in bronze, featuring an elephant.

Physical Description and Materials

• Form: The object is a single-figure desk accessory in the shape of a realistically rendered elephant.
• Material (Figure): The elephant sculpture is made of bronze with a dark, rich patina that highlights the textured surface, simulating the animal’s hide.

• Trunk Position: The elephant’s trunk is lowered and curved slightly to the side, resting near the edge of the base.

• Tusks: The small, sharp tusks are made of a pale, natural material inserted into the metal head. They are most likely bone, as this was a common, cheaper substitute for ivory in such decorative items.
• Wipe Material: The cleaning component is a small, central cluster of dark, coarse bristles that are set flush into the bronze base. These bristles are typically boar’s hair or another form of stiff animal hair, chosen for its durability and effectiveness in cleaning ink.

Dating, Origin, and Usage

• When and Where: This style of ornate, exotic figural desk accessory was characteristic of the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, placing its manufacture roughly between 1880 and 1920s. These items were popular across Central Europe (Germany/Austria) and France.
• Usage (How it was used):
  • A pen wipe was an indispensable tool for writers who used dip pens.
  • The user would gently brush the tip (nib) of the ink-laden dip pen across the exposed bristles after dipping and/or before continuing to write.
  • The stiff bristles acted to absorb and whisk away excess ink and any dust or paper fibers clinging to the nib, ensuring the ink flow was clean and preventing blotting on the paper.