What is a novelty inkwell?

A novelty inkwell is a functional desk container shaped to resemble an animal, bird or object like a cannon. These pieces disguised everyday utility behind whimsical figural designs popular in the Victorian era. Craftsmen cast them in brass or bronze, frequently incorporating glass eyes and hinged lids to conceal the glass ink insert within.

How do I date a brass desk set?

Dating relies on stylistic clues, manufacturing techniques and prevailing design movements such as Rococo Revival, Aesthetic Movement or Art Deco. Victorian pieces often feature heavy ornamentation and naturalistic animal motifs. Later Edwardian and 1920s examples introduce simpler geometric lines or streamlined forms, while maker marks and registration numbers stamped into the metal provide precise chronological reference points.

Were model cannons used on desks?

Model cannons produced in brass, bronze and cast iron served primarily as decorative paperweights or desk ornaments rather than functional artillery. Makers mounted them on wooden carriages made of oak or mahogany. These pieces reflect nineteenth and early twentieth-century military interests, often finished with polished metal barrels and functional carriage wheels.

How should I clean antique brass?

Antique brass benefits from gentle dusting and minimal intervention to preserve its accumulated age and patina. Aggressive metal polishes remove the historical surface darkening that collectors value. If cleaning is necessary, a soft cloth with mild soapy water removes grime without stripping the soft metallic sheen built up over decades of handling.

Search 0

39,026 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 79 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN DEALER LOGIN

Saved

Cast Brass Desk Accessory

79 ITEMS ADDED TODAY

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

Cast Brass Desk Accessory

33 items · page 3 of 3

← Page 3 of 3 →

A cast brass desk accessory brings weight, character and utility to a workspace, offering solid metal construction shaped into inkwells, letter racks and bookends.

19th century

Save

Victorian Ormolu Ink Stand

From Helios and Co Antiques

£295

3+ MONTHS AGO

miscellaneous

← 1 2 3 →

65,875

Antiques For Sale

Antiques Approved Today

2,955

Antique Uploads This Month

439,883

Total Antiques Sold

Cast Brass Desk Accessory

Victorian Ormolu Ink Stand

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Movements

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Freshness

Online Payments

Categories