Owl Figural Inkstand

This figural double inkstand is made of metal, cast brass or a similar alloy, given the “Star Brass” mark.

• Design and Theme: The central theme is nature-inspired, featuring two prominent owls flanking a handle. The style is detailed and somewhat Gothic or Aesthetic Movement, utilizing natural motifs.
• The Owls (Ink Reservoirs): Two cast-metal owl figures sit atop the base. The head of each owl serves as a lid to the inkwell beneath. The eyes, beak, and feathers of the owls are rendered in fine detail.
• The Handle: Between the two owls is a central handle. This handle is sculpted to resemble twisted branches or intertwined vines, reinforcing the natural aesthetic of the piece.
• The Base: The base is rectangular with curved, often lobed, edges. It includes a recessed area in the front for holding pens.
• Markings:
  • Pen Channel Mark: The channel for holding pens is marked “Waverly Owl – Pickwick.” This directly references two popular steel pen nib styles manufactured by Macniven & Cameron, which were often advertised together.
  • Bottom Mark: The underside is marked “Star Brass,” which refers to the material or the metal foundry that produced the stand components, though this foundry was likely working for the primary retailer/brand.

Information on Macniven & Cameron and Dating

The markings on this inkstand tie it directly to the famous Scottish stationers and pen manufacturers, Macniven & Cameron.

Macniven & Cameron

• Identity: A prominent stationery and pen manufacturing company based in Edinburgh, Scotland.
• Products: They were renowned for their high-quality steel pen nibs, becoming one of the most successful pen makers in Britain during the Victorian era.
• Key Pen Styles: The names marked on the inkstand, “Waverly” and “Pickwick,” refer to their two most famous and heavily marketed pen nibs, originally introduced in the 1870s. The Waverly pen, in particular, was famous for its unique upturned point (“The Waverley Pen: with the beautiful triangular point”) and was a massive commercial success. The use of these names on the inkstand is a form of branding and advertising for their pen products.

Manufacturing and Age

• Maker: The inkstand was designed and marketed by Macniven & Cameron, even if the physical casting was done by a metal works, possibly identified as “Star Brass.” Companies like Macniven & Cameron frequently contracted out the manufacture of complementary desk accessories, like this inkstand, to promote their primary products (the pens).
• Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (Macniven & Cameron’s headquarters/brand), with manufacturing likely in England or Scotland.
• Age/Date: Given that the inkstand prominently features the “Waverly” and “Pickwick” names—whose peak popularity and heavy marketing campaigns occurred from the late 1870s through the 1890s—this inkstand was most likely produced in the late 19th century (c. 1880–1900).