Cast Brass Inkstand with Japanese Blue & White Crackleware Inkwell

This is an example of an Art Nouveau (c. 1890–1915) inkstand. It is an “assembled” piece, meaning the metal base was manufactured by a Western foundry (likely American), while the ceramic inkwell itself was imported from Japan. This combination was popular during the “Japonisme” design craze of the late 19th century.

• The Ceramic Inkwell: The blue and white porcelain pot is Japanese “Crackle Ware” (sometimes called Sometsuke). The distinct “spiderweb” veins in the white glaze are intentional (a technique called craquelure). The floral pattern appears to be plum blossoms or cherry blossoms. This style of pottery was exported in huge quantities to the US and UK specifically to be mounted in metal stands like this one.
• The Metal Stand: The base is cast brass in a Rococo Revival or Art Nouveau style, featuring ornate scrollwork, floral motifs, and four feet. The lid is a hinged brass collar designed to fit over the ceramic neck.

The Maker’s Mark: The “S” in a Bucket/Mortar

The mark on the underside—a distinct letter “S” inside a tapered square or bucket shape—is most likely a foundry mark rather than a retailer’s brand. Based on the type of object and the mark’s typography, the strongest candidate is:

Stover Manufacturing & Engine Company (Freeport, Illinois)

• Why: Stover was a prolific American manufacturer of cast metal “novelties,” hardware, and household items during this exact period (1880s–1920s).
• The Evidence: While they are famous for windmills and waffle irons, they produced a large line of “fancy hardware” and coil handles using various “S” marks (sometimes in a circle, diamond, or keystone/bucket shape). The rough “sand cast” texture of the underside of your base is characteristic of American iron/brass foundries of that era.

Alternative Possibility: S. Sternau & Co. (New York)

• Sternau was a major maker of “fancy goods” and desk sets in New York (c. 1890–1920) and frequently used ceramic inserts in their metalware. They often marked items with “S. Sternau & Co,” but smaller cast components sometimes bore simpler foundry marks (like an “S” logo).

Summary of Identification

• Date: Circa 1895–1915.
• Origin: The stand is American; the porcelain insert is Japanese.
• Style: Art Nouveau / Rococo Revival.
• Manufacturer: Likely Stover Manufacturing (Illinois) or potentially S. Sternau & Co. (New York).