Thaddeus Davids “Magic Black” Ink Bottle

This late 19^th century “cone” ink bottle is desirable due to its vivid color and the survival of its original paper label.

Item Description: Thaddeus Davids “Magic Black” Ink Bottle

Overview

• Manufacturer: Thaddeus Davids Co., New York
• Product: Magic Black (A Jet Black Writing Ink)
• Date: Circa 1896 (Label bears trademark date of May 1896)
• Form: Conical/Pyramid Ink
• Color: Deep Cobalt Blue

Bottle Details

• Body & Shape: This is a classic “cone” style ink bottle with a wide, stable base tapering upward to a slender neck. The glass is a rich, vibrant cobalt blue, which was a premium color choice compared to the standard aqua or amber glass of the era.
• Neck & Finish: The bottle features a sheared or tooled cork top finish with a distinct ring or “collar” just below the lip. The lip itself shows the character of turn-of-the-century glassmaking with slight irregularities.
• Base: The base is smooth with a slightly recessed “push-up” or kick-up, typical of bottles produced in a two-piece mold during this period.

Label Condition & Text

The original multi-color paper label is remarkably well-preserved, featuring a bold, Victorian-era typographic design.

• Center Graphic: The words “MAGIC BLACK” are prominently displayed in an arched, stylized red and gold font over a black background.
• Primary Text: “DAVIDS’ MAGIC BLACK | A JET BLACK WRITING INK.”
• Manufacturer Info: “THADDEUS DAVIDS CO., NEW YORK.”
• Legal Marking: “TRADE MARK REGISTERED MAY, 1896” is printed along the bottom border.
• Condition Note: The label shows minor edge wear and a small puncture on the left side (near the “M”) but remains largely intact with vibrant colors and clear legibility—a rarity for paper labels of this age.

Historical Significance

Thaddeus Davids was one of the oldest and most prominent ink manufacturers in America, established in 1825. This specific bottle represents their “Magic Black” line, marketed during the height of the fountain and dip pen era. While the ink inside was black, the use of a cobalt blue bottle was a marketing tactic to make the product stand out on a stationer’s shelf.