Jennings Brothers Cast Brass Inkwell

Jennings Brothers made this cast brass inkwell.

Description: The inkwell features a square base with slightly splayed decorative feet. The entire piece is made of cast brass. The surface is richly decorated with repeating heart-shaped or spade-like leaves, strapwork, and geometric patterns. At the back of the inkwell, there’s an ornate, pierced crest with floral and scroll motifs.

The central feature is the inkwell itself, which is a round, lidded container. The lid is highly decorative, with a finial and concentric rings of molded patterns, including the repeating heart/spade leaf motif seen on the base. When the lid is opened, it reveals a cobalt blue glass ink insert.

Maker and Markings: The underside of the inkwell is marked “JB 2749.” The “JB” stands for Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company, a well-known American firm that produced a wide range of metalware, including desk accessories, art metal objects, and statuary, primarily from the late 19th century into the mid-20th century. The number “2749” is a model or pattern number, typical for cataloging their various designs.