Vintage Art Nouveau Jugendstil Desk InkwellGilt Metal Pen Tray with Filigree-Pattern Panels and Domed Lid, 20 cm

In 1896, a new magazine called Die Jugend, meaning “Youth,” was launched in Munich. Its fresh, flowing graphics gave a name to the German version of Art Nouveau: Jugendstil. Designers in Germany and Austria applied the new style to everything from posters to tableware, and the well-equipped writing desk was one of its favourite places to appear.

This desk inkwell is in that Art Nouveau Jugendstil spirit. Its tray has a broad, kidney-shaped outline that curls into tight scrolls on either side of the inkwell. The centre of the tray is ribbed with grooves where pens could rest, and two side panels are covered in lacy scrolls set with small rosettes. This pattern imitates filigree, an ancient goldsmiths’ technique in which fine twisted wire is shaped into delicate openwork, here reproduced in relief. The inkwell has a domed lid with the same filigree pattern and a small round knob.

The inkwell is in good condition. The gilding has worn in places, letting a warm copper tone show through, which gives it an appealing two-tone character. It makes a fine centrepiece for a writing desk, holding pens and small desk tools.

In short, this is a vintage Art Nouveau Jugendstil desk inkwell in gilt metal, with filigree-pattern panels, a ribbed pen tray and a domed lid. It measures 20 × 11 cm and is exactly as pictured.

DETAILS

Size: 20 × 11 cm (7.9 × 4.3 in). About the length of a pencil.
Material: Gilt metal
Style-Period: Art Nouveau / Jugendstil style; vintage
Shipping: Professionally packed, fully insured, worldwide. We handle the paperwork, with all import duties paid by us; nothing to settle on delivery.
Condition: Good; wear to the gilding, with a warm copper tone showing through in places.
Returns: Accepted within 30 days.

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A decorative style is not a guarantee of a particular maker or date. See the individual listing for the stated attribution and period.

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