Green Glass Inkwell in Ornate Holder

This emerald-green glass inkwell is mounted in an intricate, naturalistic holder.

Description

• The Inkwell: The inkwell is a heavy, square-cut block of translucent emerald green glass with a polished finish and beveled edges.
• The Lid: The inkwell is topped with a heavy, domed brass or gilded metal lid attached by a rear hinge. A single, finely detailed holly leaf is applied to the center of the dome as a decorative finial.
• The Ornate Holder: The inkwell sits within a decorative, cast-metal frame. The base of the holder features a delicate “chestnut leaf” and berry frieze that encircles the bottom of the glass.
• Backplate: Extending from the base is a tall, stylized backplate composed of scrolling metal “vines” adorned with further holly leaves and berries.

Origin and Estimated Age

Based on the style of the glass and the specific botanical motifs, the identification for this piece is as follows:

• Manufacturing Region: Likely England or France.
• Time Period: Produced circa 1890–1910.
• Style: It embodies the Aesthetic Movement’s transition into Art Nouveau, a period that favored lush, realistic botanical themes and saturated colors like emerald-green.

While these ornate mounts were frequently produced by high-end foundries in Birmingham (such as William Tonks & Sons) or Paris, they are often unmarked as they were sold as luxury “fancy goods” for stationary retailers. The use of holly and chestnut leaves suggests it may have been part of a seasonal or “natural history” themed desk set.