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stoneware jars were typical. Around that time the wealthy began to
embrace writing and correspondence and inkwells became more
decorative and luxury items were often made of porcelain or fine
metals. With the invention of the typewriter and advancements in pen
technology, inkwells eventually became obsolete. Except for those who
enjoy calligraphy as a hobby, an inkwell is certainly not a necessity on
a modern desk. But inkwells can be a fun object to collect. They have
been around for hundreds of years and come in infinite styles and
materials and price ranges. There are souvenir inkwells, and some have
special historical significance. While others are just beautifully crafted.
A single ornate inkwell could be a statement piece in a home office and
inkwells are a standard piece in most antique desk sets.

INK BLOTTER

Ink blotters are another desk accessory that became obsolete as
writing technology advanced. Once modern pens were able to regulate
ink, blotters became unnecessary. But before that, blotting ink was a
big part of writing. Paper was treated prior to writing or sprinkled with
salt or other powder to help the ink dry before it smudged. Blotting
paper is a textured, thick paper specifically made to quickly absorb
excess ink and rocking blotters were often made of wood, stone, metal,
porcelain, or glass and had a small handle, curved base, and felt bottom
that could be rocked over the text to remove excess ink. Interestingly,
blotters had been heavily used for advertising but when ballpoint pens
made them obsolete advertisers realized that the body of the pen could
be used to promote businesses and services. A modern desk may not
require a blotter, but they can be beautiful and are often included in
antique desk sets or can be collected on their own.

An advertisement for pens, pencils, and paper cutters from the
H. O’Neill & Co. 1897-8 Fall & Winter Fashion Catalogue

INKWELL

An Art Nouveau rocking ink blotter, c. 1900
photo: Dorotheum Online Auctions

LETTER OPENER

English Victorian brass letter opener photo: Newel Gallery

In the mid-19th century, letter openers became popular when
postage rates were reduced for letters mailed inside envelopes. Before
that time, most letters were simply folded and sealed with wax. The
invention of practical envelopes increased the demand for letter openers
by business firms, government offices, and private citizens. Letter openers
French 18th century Art Faience inkstand photo: The David Collection Museum
became widely available and were able to be made from just about any
For hundreds of years, writing required an inkwell. Quills and early material. Manufacturers found them to be great promotional tools. As
pens did not contain ink reservoirs so the ink was held in small vessels with other desk accessories, wealthy consumers wanted high-quality
which would have been found on just about any desk where writing versions to adorn their desks. So, while some letter openers are made of
took place. The earliest forms of inkwells date back to the times of plastic and contain advertising for local businesses, others can be made
Ancient Egypt and were stones with round holes that held the ink. from sterling silver or even gold or be carved from ivory. The value of
Before the 16th century in Europe, writing was considered a demeaning these items can vary greatly, and they are another example of desk
task so inkwells would have been simple and functional. Small glass or accessories that are as useful today as they were 50 or 100 years ago.
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