Japanese Meiji Inkwell Mixed Metal Lotus Design

A small inkwell with a globular body and a lid shaped like a lotus flower and seed pod.

 

The heavy copper body has been enhanced by other metals to form designs. The lid has a lotus flower base with a drumstick or pestle handle. There are brass highlights on the handle, a line on the body and a checkerboard effect under the lid. The base is flat and has worn the dark patina to the point that you can see the copper.

 

Two characters are etched into a cartouche under the lid. One character is for “great” and we’re not sure that the other character is.

 

 

2” (5.1 cm) diameter x 1 3/4 “ (4.4 cm) tall. Weighs 5.6 oz (160 g)

 

 

There are no breaks, dents, repairs or breaks. There are a couple of tiny spots of verdigris on the body. The ink receptacle is missing. There is wear to the base from movement on a surface.

 

A heavy scholar’s object to enhance your desk or collection.