Rococo Revival Inkwell with Red Glass Cabochon

An ornate antique inkwell dating to the turn of the 20th century, with a thick opaque white glass body set into a richly detailed gilt-metal mount. The hinged lid is centered by a deep red glass cabochon and surrounded by concentric beading and floral relief, while the base is finished with a rope-twist border and softly scrolling ornament.

The hinged lid is marked “Pat. Dec. 28 ’97,” referring to Ernest Oldenbusch’s patented inkwell-cap hinge, issued December 28, 1897. Oldenbusch went on to co-found Kronheimer & Oldenbusch in Brooklyn in 1899, a firm known for decorative desk accessories, inkwells, jewel boxes, and other “art metal” novelties. That patent connection places this piece firmly in the company’s earliest period of production around the turn of the century.

Stylistically, the piece leans more Rococo Revival than Art Nouveau, with its symmetrical composition, scrolling foliate ornament, beaded borders, and jewel-like red cabochon. The white glass body gives the metalwork even more presence, making it feel almost like a small piece of jewelry for the desk.

Origin: United States, c. 1898–1905; attributed to Kronheimer & Oldenbusch / K. & O. Novelties Company
Material: Thick opaque white glass with gilt-metal mounts and red glass cabochon
Dimensions: 3" L x 3" W
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related tarnish, patina, rubbing, and surface wear to the metalwork. Minor marks and wear are present to the glass consistent with age and use.