Buyer Be Aware – Bronze Bear’s Head Inkwell

This charming bear’s head inkwell is believed to be a modern production, mimicking the late 19th to early 20th-century Austrian or German cold-painted bronzes, especially those from the Bergman workshop. But unlike the originals, they’re made for decorative appeal, not utility or craftsmanship. And, unfortunately, they are sold as antique pieces.

Telltale Signs of Modern Production

• Pristine Paint Condition True antique cold-painted bronzes—especially Viennese examples—almost always show wear, flaking, or fading due to age. If the paint appears flawless, it’s a red flag. But sometimes the painted finish is purposely made to look worn. Aging on a bronze has a recognizable patina.
• “GESCHÜTZT” Mark Misuse While the term Geschützt (meaning “protected”) was used historically, modern replicas often exaggerate its placement and size to feign authenticity. On genuine pieces, the mark is discreet—usually on the underside.
• Clunky Hinge and Poor Fit Antique Viennese bronzes were meticulously crafted. A misaligned lid or crude hinge suggests mass production rather than artisanal work.
• Missing or Ill-Fitting Insert Many modern decorative inkwells lack a proper glass or porcelain liner or functional interior, which were standard in true writing instruments.

• Overly stylized or sentimental motifs (e.g., exaggerated expressions) that cater more to modern tastes than historical realism. Whimsical sells, no matter that it was manufactured yesterday. There are big bucks to be made selling these as antiques.