Accession Number
2010/1.221

Title
Inkwell made of sterling silver overlay on crystal glass

Artist(s)
Artist Unknown

Object Creation Date
1875-1975

Medium & Support
glass, metal

Dimensions
2 3/4 in. x 3 15/16 in. x 3 15/16 in. ( 7 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm )

Credit Line
Gift in loving memory of Donald Maxwell Robiner from his family

Subject matter
As with most objects of daily use, inkwells could be modest and utilitarian or more fanciful, the latter employing lavish use of precious materials to reflect and enhance the status of the possessor. Inkwells in the UMMA collections demonstrate a rich variety of materials, including silver, crystal, ceramic, and metal. Some pre-date the emergence of the fountain pen, and many mark the transition from a quill or nib pen to the convenience of the pocket pen commonly found today. Inkwells are avidly collected by those who value the artistry that went into the creation of a beautiful object for everyday life.

Physical Description
This is a spherical shaped glass inkwell with sterling silver overlay in intricate designs of flowers and plants. The top half of the sphere, which opens horizontally, is the lid.

Primary Object Classification
Decorative Arts

Primary Object Type
Inkwell

Rights
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.

Keywords
inkwells
spheres (geometric figures)