Jennings Brothers – Stag’s Head in Relief

This Art Nouveau inkwell is made from white metal and designed with flowing lines and naturalistic motifs.  The most prominent feature is the antlered stag depicted in high relief on the front of the inkwell’s body. The stag’s head and neck are detailed, showcasing its majestic antlers, expressive eye, and textured fur. The stag motif is often associated with nature and the hunt, popular themes during this period.

The inkwell has a hinged lid that covers the ink reservoir. The handle of the lid is designed as a cluster of oak leaves and acorns. The irregularly shaped base of the inkwell is also adorned with additional acorns and leaves. Inscribed on the bottom is “Trade Mark J. B. The Finest 502”.

Information about Jennings Brothers of Bridgeport, Connecticut:

Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company was a prominent American manufacturing company based in Bridgeport, Connecticut. They were active from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century (approximately 1890 to 1950s).

• Product Range: Jennings Brothers produced a wide variety of high-quality metal goods, including:
  • Desk accessories: Inkwells, letter openers, paperweights, pen trays.
  • Tableware: Serving pieces, trays.
  • Figural sculptures and novelties: Often in spelter, bronze, and other metals.
  • Clocks and lamps.
• Style and Materials: Their designs often reflected the popular styles of the time, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Victorian influences. They worked with various metals, including spelter (also known as pot metal or white metal), brass, and bronze, often with applied patinas to mimic more expensive materials.
• Markings: Their products are typically marked with “J. B.” often within a shield or other design, along with model numbers like the “502” found on this inkwell.
• Art Nouveau Period: The Art Nouveau style, with its emphasis on organic forms and flowing lines, was particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, aligning with the design of this stag inkwell. Jennings Brothers produced many items in this style.