Vintage Ink Wells

Before the fountain pen was invented in the late 1800's, people typically wrote with steel pointed or quill dip pens dipped into ink wells. These ink wells were typically made out of glass, but stone, wood, porcelain, and even sea shells were used to store ink as well.

When two or more ink wells are combined into one unit they make up what is called an ink stand. Along with the ink bottles, an ink stand may include a dish of sand for drying ink, a glue container, and/or candles to seal letters. Some ink stands also have a small ring of tightly packed bristles to clean any dried ink from the pen's point.

Some antique ink wells feature glass with elaborately carved patterns and designs. These vintage ink wells are more rare, and subsequently more valuable. Generally speaking, the most valuable and highly collectible ink wells are from the late 1800's and early 1900's. The value of each will depend on the type of glass, the pattern, and the manufacturer as well.

Vintage ink wells, ink bottles, and ink stands can be found at your neighborhood antique store, garage sales, and estate sales. However, eBay is the best place to find these vintage bottles online.