Owl Inkstand

Description of the owl inkstand:

• Material and Finish: The inkstand is made of spelter, a zinc alloy, and finished to mimic pewter.
• Owl Figure: The inkstand is sculpted to represent a watchful owl. The owl is depicted with one of its wings spread out to the side.
  • Glass Eyes: A striking feature is its bright yellow, round glass eyes with black pupils, which stand out vividly against the dark metal and give the owl a lifelike and intense gaze.
  • Head as Lid: The owl’s head is hinged and designed to lift open, providing access to the inkwell.
  • Wing as Pen Tray: One of the owl’s wings (the right wing from the viewer’s perspective) extends outwards and flattens, forming a pen tray. The feathers of the wing are sculpted in relief.
• Markings: The underside of the inkstand is marked “GESTZL. GESCHUTZ 852”.
  • “GESTZL. GESCHUTZ” is an abbreviation for “Gesetzlich Geschützt,” which translates to “Legally Protected” or “Patented.” It indicates that the design of this inkstand was protected by German law, similar to a copyright or design patent.
  • “852” is likely the specific registration or design number assigned to this inkstand.