Salt-Glazed Stoneware Inkwell

Description of the Inkwell:

• Material and Glaze: The inkwell is crafted from stoneware, a dense and non-porous ceramic. It exhibits a characteristic salt glaze, visible as a glossy, slightly irregular surface texture, often described as “orange peel.” The primary color of the stoneware body appears to be a consistent warm light brown or tan, with subtle variations inherent to the salt-glazing process.
• Decoration: Fruiting Vines Pattern: The exterior of the inkwell is adorned with a decorative “fruiting vines” pattern. This design is applied in relief (sprigged-on or molded onto the surface), giving it a tactile, three-dimensional quality. The pattern features intertwining vines with distinct leaves and clusters of what appear to be berries or grapes.
• Opening: The top of the inkwell features a large circular opening, into which a cork or stopper would have been inserted to seal the ink. There are four “quill holes” around the rim of this inkwell.