Tribute to Humanities

This inkwell pays homage to the study of the Humanities. At its center is a hinged world globe that opens to reveal the original ten-sided (decagon) inkpot inside. Surrounding the globe are finely crafted miniature emblems, including an artist’s palette with brushes, a compass, drafting triangle, telescope, blacksmith hammer, industrial gear, open scroll, books, Roman lyre, and theatrical mask. These elements symbolize Geography, Literature, Language, and the Performing and Visual Arts, while also possibly hinting at Masonic symbolism.

The ten-sided inkpot appears to be original (see photos 06, 07, and 19) and shows signs of residual ink. The topper is cork, surrounded by a membrane-like material, though it is unknown whether this component is original.

While all known examples of this type of inkwell share the same core components, each one appears unique in the final arrangement—suggesting that the fabricators exercised a degree of artistic freedom during assembly. It’s possible that the component placement functioned as a kind of “signature” for each assembler. Notably, the underside of both the first and last documented examples (see photos 10 and 25) show identical mounting hole positions on the base, indicating the use of a template to secure the upper elements.

The origin of these inkwells remains unknown, as there are no identifiable maker’s marks. However, similar examples—believed to be from the same manufacturer—have surfaced with inscriptions in Russian cursive, German, and English. These were likely presentation gifts, suggesting a wide geographical distribution.

For instance, the inkwell shown in photos 14 and 15 was sold through a German auction house and bore a Russian cursive inscription:
“To Viktor Daminovich – In sign of attractiveness and depth of respect.”

Another variation of this inkwell, possibly from the same maker, shares several of the same components but is themed around the Applied Sciences. This second design broadens the creative scope attributed to the manufacturer and raises the possibility that additional, yet undiscovered, versions may exist—each honoring different academic disciplines. You can view this alternate design, referred to as the “Applied Sciences” tribute, here: https://inkwellresearch.com/inkipedia/tribute-to-applied-sciences/ (see photos 11, and 12).