Reclining Semi-Nude Female at Water’s Edge

This Brittania pewter inkstand, marked “WMF”, features a reclining female figure, possibly a nymph or goddess, seated at water’s edge. The figure is depicted in a graceful and flowing pose, with her hair cascading down her back. The pool of water is adorned with intricate details, including ripples and waves. The inkwell itself is located within an outcropping with a lid shaped like a seashell.

WMF, which stands for Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, is a German company known for its high-quality pewter and silver products. This inkstand is a classic example of Art Nouveau style, characterized by its organic forms, flowing lines, and emphasis on natural motifs. The underside is also marked with a “B” (Brittania, a pewter alloy) and “OX” (oxidized).

WMF traces its beginnings to 1880 when the merger of Straub & Sohn and Ritter & Co. formed the public limited company Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik. The company initially focused on tableware and decorative pieces, such as vases and planters. In 1892, WMF introduced its patented “perfect hard silver plating,” a technology that distributes twice as much silver to the sections that experience the most wear, allowing the whole piece to hold its luster longer than other silver-plated products.

In 1905, WMF acquired a majority holding of Orivit AG, a company in Cologne that manufactured products from a tin alloy, further expanding its range of materials. By 1910, its main facility in Geislingen, Germany, employed 4,000 workers. It had branches in Vienna, Warsaw and London, and printed a catalog in 12 languages.

Information about WMF marks can be found at this link:

Marks of European Silver Plate: XIV: WMF (Hollow Ware and Trays): an article on ASCAS: Association of Small Collectors of Antique Silver website (ascasonline.org)