Cut Crystal Inkwell

This heavy cut crystal inkwell features a distinctive design characterized by its thick-walled glass and architectural form.

Description

The body of the inkwell is made from clear, heavy glass—lead crystal—shaped into a rectangular block with substantial chamfered (beveled) corners. This multi-faceted cutting creates a prismatic effect, refracting light throughout the body of the piece.

The base features a deeply cut 16-point starburst design (also known as a star-cut base), which was both a decorative hallmark of quality cut glass and a functional feature to hide scratches from desk use. The lid is a hinged, square silverplated plate with a simple, flat profile that complements the geometric lines of the glass.

Maker and Markings

• Maker: While there is no prominent company name visible, a small numeral “2” is stamped into the metal of the hinge. These numbers typically served as assembly or size marks rather than a maker’s mark.
• Potential Manufacturers: This style was popular among both American and British manufacturers at the turn of the century. Prominent American makers of similar heavy crystal inkwells include Meriden Britannia or Pairpoint. If of British origin, makers like John Grinsell & Sons produced many similar beveled crystal pieces.
• Material: The circular stamp visible inside the lid is consistent with EPNS (Electro Plated Nickel Silver).

Country of Origin and Age

• Country of Origin: Most likely the United States or England.
• Age: Circa 1890–1915 The combination of heavy geometric cutting and a minimalist silver-plated lid is characteristic of the transition from Victorian ornate styles to the cleaner lines of the early 20th century.