German Majolica Inkwell

This is a nice example of German Majolica-style glazed earthenware from the early 20th century.

The Maker and Markings

The underside of this inkwell contains several key pieces of information that narrow down its origin:

• The Maker (AB): The monogram AB belongs to August Blondel, a ceramic factory located in Eichwald, Bohemia (now Dubí in the Czech Republic). While the region was historically part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it was ethnically and industrially linked to Germany, hence the “Germany” export stamp.
• “Gesetzlich Geschützt”: This is the German equivalent of “Patented” or “Copyright Protected,” indicating the design was legally registered.
• “3017”: This is the mold or model number. In European ceramics, these numbers were used by the factory to track specific shapes and designs.
• “Germany”: This mark suggests the piece was produced for export, likely between 1890 and 1914, as the McKinley Tariff Act of 1890 required imports to the U.S. to be marked with their country of origin.

Detailed Description

Item: Antique Majolica Inkwell Origin: August Blondel, Eichwald (Bohemia/Germany) Date: Circa 1900–1910 Material: Glazed Earthenware (Majolica/Fine Faience) with a glass insert and metal (nickel-plated brass) hinge.

Physical Characteristics:

• Design: An ornate, rectangular plinth base featuring Rococo Revival and Art Nouveau influences. The base is decorated with high-relief molded grapevines, clusters of grapes, and scrolling acanthus leaves.
• Glaze: A rich, monochromatic moss green glaze with intentional pooling in the crevices to highlight the sculptural details (a hallmark of the Majolica technique).
• Structure: The domed lid is topped with a molded finial resembling a pineapple or a stylized bud.
  • The inkwell opens on a metal hinge to reveal a removable, clear glass ink liner.
  • The base rests on four integral, scrolling “C-scroll” feet.
• Condition Notes: The glaze has a high-gloss finish with some natural crazing (fine surface cracks) consistent with age.

Summary

German Majolica Inkwell by August Blondel A fine green-glazed porcelain inkwell of rectangular form with scrolling feet. The body is heavily molded with a grapevine and foliate motif. The hinged lid features a cluster finial and opens to a removable glass reservoir. Underside marked with the “AB” monogram for August Blondel, “Gesetzlich Geschützt,” and mold number 3017. Circa 1900.