Egyptian Revival Inkwell

This Egyptian Revival inkwell is a classic example of American metalware from the 1920s, a period of “Egyptomania” that followed the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.

Based on the distinctive 793 pattern number and the mechanical design, this piece was manufactured by the Jennings Brothers (J.B.) of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Manufacturer & Origin

• Maker: Jennings Brothers (J.B.). They were one of the most prolific American foundries for high-quality desk accessories, known for their “white metal” (spelter) castings with elaborate gilt, silver, or bronze patinas.
• Identification: The three-digit number 793 is the specific pattern number for this model. Jennings Brothers typically marked their pieces either with their “J.B.” logo or simply with these pattern numbers.
• Date & Location: Made in the USA (Bridgeport, CT) circa 1923–1928.
• Mechanism: The swivel lid is a hallmark of Jennings Brothers figural inkwells; while many of their competitors (like Bradley & Hubbard) favored traditional hinges, J.B. often used a single-pin swivel to maintain the sculptural integrity of the piece.

Subject & Design

• The Face: In 1920s trade catalogs, this face was typically identified as a stylized Egyptian Pharaoh or sometimes as Cleopatra. It features the traditional nemes headdress.
• Symbolism: The base design is an intentional nod to the stepped pyramids of Saqqara. This “stepped” or “tiered” motif was a bridge between the ancient Egyptian aesthetic and the emerging Art Deco style of the 1920s. It served as channels to hold pens.