German Art Deco Double Inkstand

This is a nice example of German Art Deco metalwork, likely dating to the 1920s or early 1930s. The piece is a classic “Schreibtisch-Garnitur” (desk set) that perfectly captures the “Machine Age” optimism of the period.

Design & Style

• Style: This is firmly Art Deco. Unlike the flowing, organic lines of the earlier Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) period, this piece uses geometric symmetry, bold outlines, and “speed lines” to create a sense of modernity and progress.
• Motifs: The Sunburst: The fan-like rays at the top represent the “rising sun,” one of the most iconic Art Deco symbols, signifying a new dawn and forward momentum.
  • The Anchor: The central anchor is highly stylized, almost resembling a futuristic emblem. While anchors often signify maritime stability, in this Deco context, the focus is on the graphic, symmetrical shape rather than just a nautical theme.
• Composition: The oval base and the dual circular inkwell lids create a balanced, architectural look that was popular for professional office accessories of the era.

Material & Construction

• Markings: The mark GESCHÜTZT on the underside is German for “Protected” (short for Gesetzlich Geschützt), which essentially means the design was copyrighted or patented. This mark was standard for high-quality German and Austrian metalware from the late 19th century through the 1930s.
• Material: Based on the textured, grainy finish visible on the underside, the base is likely silver-plated cast iron. The silver plating has worn over time, giving it that soft, matte pewter-like patina.
• Inserts: Both of the original white porcelain (or ceramic) liners are present.

Age and Origin

• Origin: Made in Germany. The combination of the “Geschützt” mark and the specific “industrial-meets-ornamental” aesthetic is very typical of German metalwork hubs like Geislingen (home of WMF) or Schwäbisch Gmünd.
• Age: Circa 1925–1930. This was the height of the Art Deco movement in Europe, just before the style became more streamlined and minimalist in the mid-1930s.