Cut Glass Inkwell on Pedestal Base

This heavy, faceted cut glass inkwell dates to the late 19^th century (circa 1880–1900).

Description

• The Glass: The piece is crafted from thick, lead crystal with deep multi-faceted cutting. The lid features a complex starburst or “jeweled” facet pattern that catches the light from every angle. The central ink reservoir is a squared cube with chamfered (beveled) corners.
• The Base: The tiered pedestal base is functionally designed. The lowest “stepped” tier extends beyond the main body of the inkwell to create a horizontal ledge. This ledge features a subtle concave groove intended to serve as a pen rest for a dip pen.
• The Coupling: The brass collar and hinge mechanism feature a distinctive double-beaded (or “dotted”) decorative band.

Origin and Dating

• Where was it made? Without a maker’s mark, this style is most frequently attributed to English (Stourbridge region, such as Thomas Webb & Sons) or French (Baccarat or St. Louis) glassworks. The heavy, geometric faceting is often referred to as “Baccarat style,” though English manufacturers produced nearly identical high-lead crystal sets for the London luxury market.
• When was it made? Based on the thickness of the glass, the specific brass mount style, and the integration of the pen rest into the base, it fits perfectly into the Victorian period, specifically the 1880s or 1890s. By the early 20th century (Edwardian era), these designs often became lighter and less geometrically “chunky.”

This is a substantial piece that was designed to be both a utilitarian ink source and a weighted “desk anchor” to prevent accidental tipping while dipping a pen.