Irish Bog Oak Inkwells

Several examples of inkwells made from Irish bog oak.

Irish bog oak is a rare material. It forms when ancient oak trees sink into waterlogged peat bogs, where they undergo a slow process of preservation due to the lack of oxygen. Over time, the wood absorbs minerals from the surrounding environment, resulting in its characteristic dark color and unique texture. Finely carved bog oak items became a favorite of Queen Victoria. On an Irish visit, she wore a bog oak brooch mounted in Wicklow gold and set with Irish gems. Her enthusiasm for Irish bog oak contributed to its popularity during her era. Bog oak was used for the manufacture of small articles, often intended  for the tourist or souvenir trade.

#1 – Cauldron-shaped hand carved inkwell with an Irish shamrock and Celtic harp design. The finial on the lid is a carved pig.  2 ⅜” diameter; 2 ¼” high.  Estimated value: $50

#2 – This lidded pot with handle was carved with shamrocks along the perimeter and has the word “Ink” carved on the lid. 2 ¾” long; 1 ¼” high. Estimated value: $40

#3 – Irish bog oak inkwell and pen hand carved with designs of shamrocks and harp.  2” diameter; 2 ½” high. Estimated value: $40

#4 – Irish bog oak inkwell festooned with shamrocks and with a banner ribbon for “BELFAST”.

#5 – Hinged glass inkwell on an Irish bog oak base in the shape of a shamrock decorated with shamrocks and a harp. Resting on its pen holder is a matching bog oak dip pen. Base: 3 ⅜” x 3 ¼”. Estimated value: $75

#6 – Irish bog oak inkwell in the form of a cat’s head with glass eyes. “Ink” is carved onto the side. 1 ½” diameter; 2” high. Estimated value: $60

#7 – Irish carved bog oak inkstand with cut glass hinged inkwell. The base is made from a solid lump of bog oak and decorated with shamrocks.  6 ¼” x 3 ¼” Sold for $225 in November 2012