Newlyn Copper Inkwell

An original Newlyn Cornwall copper inkwell of square form, decorated with shells and a heart. Marked to the base “Newlyn”.

Late in the 19th century the fishing industry in Cornwall was becoming unreliable as a source of income: bad weather and seasonal fluctuations brought enforced periods of inactivity. It was decided that an alternative means of employment could be gained by training the unemployed fishermen to produce items in copper. After some early experiments, the Newlyn school specialized in repoussé copper work and produced a wide range of domestic and decorative items. The school remained active for about thirty years after its establishment in 1890.