Inkpots, writing cases

Since writing was invented, inkwells have been essential to text writing. When fountain pens and ballpoint pens arose, inkwells became decorative objects. Together with blotting paper and fountain pens, they are desk accessories highly valued by collectors and businessmen. By definition an inkwell is a container for ink. It can be part of a piece of furniture, or have its own designated space on a desk, as in the case of Louis VX cylinder desk designed by Oeben between 1760 and 1769, or pupils desks in the 20^th century. Materials used vary according to the styles from gilt bronze – as the Charles X inkwells in the 19^th century – to Chinese or Japanese lacquer –used in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. Some inkwells are embellished with true sculptures from famous names like Niccolo Roccatagliata or Barbedienne.