Antique Sterling Silver Crystal Inkwell with Bakelite Dip Pen, Monogrammed Lid

Details

Antique Birks Sterling-Mounted Cut Crystal Inkwell with Bakelite Dip Pen — Circa 1920s

Elegant antique desk inkwell featuring a beautifully cut crystal body fitted with a sterling silver collar and hinged lid stamped Birks and bearing English sterling hallmarks. The lid is engraved with a classic monogram “M,” a traditional personalization commonly found on fine early twentieth-century desk accessories.

The heavy crystal body displays crisp geometric cutting with strong light refraction, giving the piece both visual brilliance and substantial weight. A built-in pen trough allows the dip pen to rest neatly alongside the inkwell, reflecting the refined practicality typical of executive desk appointments from the interwar period.

Included is a period amber Bakelite dip pen fitted with a gold nib marked “AB Pro Déposé,” a French nib maker’s mark found on early twentieth-century writing instruments. The pen is era-appropriate to the piece, though not confirmed as the original companion.

A handsome and functional writing accessory from the golden age of desk culture — perfect for a study, library, or traditional executive desk.

Details
Maker: Birks
Era: Circa 1920s
Material: Cut crystal with sterling silver mount
Hallmarks: Birks stamp with English sterling marks
Features: Hinged sterling lid engraved with monogram “M”, integrated pen trough
Pen: Amber Bakelite dip pen with gold nib marked AB Pro Déposé
Condition
Very good antique condition with light age-appropriate wear to the silver and crystal consistent with careful use. The crystal cutting remains sharp, and the hinged lid operates smoothly.
Measurements
Length: 6 inches
Height: 1.5 inches
Weight: 0.735 kg
Dip Pen Length: 7 inches

This piece is also available in our antique booth at Roadshow’s 400 Antiques Mall (Booth R543). Inventory is updated regularly, but availability may change — please feel free to message us with any questions.
We’re always open to fair offers — antiques should find the right home.
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