Inkipedia

Mercedes Race Car Inkstand

Categories Figural - Inanimate
Type Transportation
Material Pewter
Markings See narrative
Manufacturer Wilhelm Zwick
Origin Germany
Date or Era circa 1908
Measuring 15 ¾” x 9” x 6” high

This pewter inkstand features a driver and mechanic racing a Mercedes car along a dirt track with a cloud of dust flying up from behind them. The hood (bonnet) opens to access the inkwell. The trunk opens to access a storage compartment. The road in front serves as a pen tray. The underside contains a foundry mark of a German eagle and the word “Kayser” (for Kayserzinn). It is signed by the artist Wilhelm Zwick (1839 – 1916) who created this motor racing model to capture the interest in the sport. We believe this piece was made around 1908 when a Mercedes race car was the winner of the “1908 Grand Prix”, which was held in Dieppe, France. Christian Lautenschlager was the winning Driver of that race. His average winning speed in that race was 69 mph.

Sold for $1200 in October 2020

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