This set of three salt glazed penny inkwells is a sweet little stoneware trio from around the late 1800s, in warm honey, bronze, caramel and tan browns.
Penny inks are named after their price, and they were the everyday inkpots that sat on school desks and office benches. These three have the classic shape: a short, round body with a flat shoulder and a little collared neck. The salt glaze gives them that warm, slightly sandy finish, and each one has come out a different shade, from a glossy honey to a duller tan.
Group them on a desk or shelf, line them up on a windowsill with a single stem in each, or use them for pencils, brushes and little bits and pieces. They sit nicely with our pewter trinket bowl and wooden candle holder (both listed separately) for a desk or dresser display.
They were handmade in Australia by places such as Bendigo Pottery, and also in England and France.
Condition: They’re well over a century old and look it. The glaze has worn through in patches, and there are small chips and dark iron specks on the shoulders, as seen in photos. There’s general scuffing and light staining, as you’d expect. These trios are randomly selected from our stock, so the actual product shipped may vary, although all are in similar condition. Call us to arrange personalised selection either in-person or via video call.
Dimensions: Each inkwell: 5cm high × 5cm diameter x 5cm height
Care: Wash gently by hand in warm water and air dry.
We ship Australia-wide, and local pickup (and in-person selection) from Mt Coolum, Qld is available by arrangement.
Where to find them in Australian Museums
https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/6a0fb1ef5763aa285f5cf1e5
- Melbourne Museum (Museums Victoria): Displays an original penny inkwell (Item LL 80845, circa 1880) excavated from the historic Commonwealth Block (Little Lon) site in Melbourne.
- Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village: Salvaged from the wreck of the Loch Ard
