Inkipedia

Dog – Ceramic Bulldog’s Head

Categories Ceramics/Porcelain Figural
Type dog
Material Porcelain
Markings Unmarked
Manufacturer Undetermined
Origin Undetermined
Date or Era circa 1900

Unusual ceramic inkwell in the shape of a bull dog’s head.  Head lifts to reveal inkpot. Two examples pictured.

Description

  • Form & Expression: The piece is modeled as a figural English Bulldog head, characterized by deeply furrowed brow wrinkles, heavy sagging jowls, rose ears, and an open underbite displaying sculpted teeth and a red tongue.
  • Coloration & Finish: Glazed in a crisp white porcelain with soft airbrushed/underglaze charcoal-gray shading highlighting the contours and skin folds, complemented by cold-painted brown tones on the eyes and eyelids.
  • Mechanism & Structure: The upper portion of the head functions as a hinged lid, connected across the back via a horizontal metal wire pin hinge. When opened, it reveals a fitted cylindrical well holding its original, removable white porcelain inkwell insert cup.
  • When was it made? Late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1890–1915).

 

 

Estimated value: $200

Sold for $240 in July 2026

Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.

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