The Mandarin

The pointed ears, bald head, and strange angular features look strikingly alien to modern eyes, resembling 1920s–50s sci-fi depictions of Martians or a man from outer space – even a resemblance to Dr. Spock. This inkwell dates to around 1900. Its maker did not intend to depict a space alien.

The Original Intent (The “Far East” Theory): When this was made in the late 19th century (Victorian era), the concept of “Martians” was not yet a pop-culture staple. I am guessing it is a caricature of a Chinese Man (or more specifically a Mandarin Chinese man).

• The “Queue” Handle: When the handle is folded down behind the head, it mimics the shape of a Queue—the long, braided pigtail hairstyle worn by men in China during the Qing Dynasty.
• Grotesque Style: It fits into the Victorian fascination with “Grotesques”—objects featuring goblins, devils, or exaggerated foreign caricatures.

3. Material

• Material: It is made of Cast Brass. The underside shows the rough, sandy texture inside the hollow base, which is characteristic of sand-cast brass from the late 19th century. The verdigris (green oxidation) visible in the cracks confirms it is a copper-based alloy (brass or bronze) with significant age.

4. Summary of Specifications

• Date: Circa 1890–1900 (Late Victorian).
• Style: Victorian Grotesque / Orientalist.