Dog – Bulldog – Austrian Mark

This inkstand is an early 20th-century figural desk accessory crafted from spelter metal (a zinc-based alloy) and finished with a dark, textured patina to simulate bronze.

Description

• The Scene: The inkstand is modeled as a rugged, rocky outcrop. An English Bulldog stands on the left side of the base. The dog features a contrasting silver-colored studded collar.
• The Inkwell: On the right side of the base, a raised “boulder” serves as the ink reservoir. The top of this boulder is a hinged lid that opens to reveal a removable white porcelain insert.
• Material: The piece is made of cast spelter. The bulldog has a warm, metallic finish, while the base is painted in a mottled grey-black style to resemble natural rock.

Identification

The underside of the base bears a distinct set of manufacturer marks that identify its origin:

• Trade Mark: The central logo depicts a crown (or coronet) above a horizontal bar.
• The Name: Below the crown, the word “CORONET” is clearly stamped in block letters.
• Origin: The word “AUSTRIA” is stamped in a curve along the bottom edge of the hallmark.

Historical Context

While this piece was manufactured in Austria (circa 1900–1920), it is a product of the Coronet brand rather than a high-end bronze foundry. Spelter items like this were popular alternatives to solid bronze, offering the same naturalistic Austrian aesthetic at a more accessible price point.