Robert Riddle Jarvie Bronze Inkwell

Robert Riddle Jarvie was a functionary at the Chicago Department of Transportation before the turn of the century, and as a hobby began making lanterns and the tall, graceful candlesticks for which he is best known.  In 1904 or 1905 he left his job and started the Jarvie Shop in downtown Chicago, where he and his wife, Lillian Gray, sold handmade copper and brass items in the shop along with some Arts & Crafts items made by others. Jarvie produced a wide range of metalwork, from humble bowls and bookends to massive trophies, tea sets, pitchers, and punchbowls, many with elaborate applied monograms or inscriptions.  Both the design and execution of his silver and copper objects are at the top of the scale.  He’s best known today for his series of copper and brass candlesticks, each named after a Greek letter (he would silverplate them on occasion as a special request).

This inkwell is unsigned but attributed to Jarvie. He was known for the simplicity and harmony in his metal work. He adapted strictly American motifs in design, borrowing from “aboriginal Americans”. This patinated bronze inkwell is a piece of art that showcases the style of the time.