Inkipedia
Frog or Toad Inkwell
| Categories | Figural - Animals & Living Creatures |
| Type | Toad or Frog |
| Material | Pot metal |
| Markings | Numbered "613" |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Undetermined |
| Date or Era | circa 1900 |
| Measuring | 2 ¾” x 2 ¼” x 3 ¼” high |
This metal frog / toad holds something in his forelimbs – perhaps a lotus flower – with the hole at the end serving as a pen holder. His hinged head lifts to access the glass inkwell. The number “613” is marked on the bottom. The piece is definitely old, though I’m not sure how to date it, defaulting to circa 1900.
2 ¾” x 2 ¼” x 3 ¼” high
This inkwell is relatively easy to find. The average sales price (ranging from $25 to $125) is about $50.
I was surprised to find a bronze version of this frog selling on eBay for £300 (about $394) by a seller in London: https://www.ebay.com/usr/taliesinantiques?_trksid=p2047675.m3561.l2559
The seller dated the bronze piece to the Meiji period (1850 – 1899). It was not numbered on the bottom. Inside the frog’s head is an Oriental mark (Chinese?) which, in the seller’s view) indicates authenticity.
The last picture is of the bronze Okimono. Here is the link to the Inkipedia entry: Japanese Frog Inkwell and Brush Holder – The Society of Inkwell Collectors (SOIC) (inkwellresearch.com)
My advice about the bronze Okimono: Buyer Beware!
Estimated value: $60
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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