Inkipedia
Monkey on an Elephant’s Head
| Categories | Figural - Animals & Living Creatures |
| Type | Elephant, Monkey |
| Date or Era | circa 1870 - 1900 |
There are several versions of this inkwell (most unmarked), all depicting a monkey playing a flute seated on an elephant’s head. The elephant has large, prominent ears and a long, curved trunk. The tusks serve as a pen holder. The decorative headscarf on the elephant’s head is a hinged lid with the monkey serving as a finial and opens to access the inkwell. While often described as a “circus elephant”, the design was probably inspired by an ornately caparisoned elephant with a monkey from a wedding procession in India.
Version #1 is silverplated and is on a stepped circular base marked “L&W.S -E.P.B.M.” (Lee & Wigfull of Sheffield – Electro-Plated Base Metal). 6 ⅞” x 4 ⅜” x 5 ½” high. This version sold for $159 on eBay in May 2024.
Version #2 was made by the Meriden Britannia Company. The underside is marked “Meridian B. Company – Quadruple Plate – 37 – U.S.A.” Sold for $300 in November 2022. 6 ¼” x 3” x 4” high
Version #3 – Cold painted bronze on a platform base. Signed “Bergm”. Sold for $462 in August 2015.
Version #4 – Cold painted spelter metal. Sold for $199 in February 2017
Version #5 – Silverplate – different lid, monkey, and hinge.
Version #6 – White metal with gold finish – marked “JB 356” (Jennings Brothers)
Most sell in the $100 to $300 range depending on the condition. Bronze version sells between $250 and $500.
4/27/25 a silverplated version sold for $680 on eBay.
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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