Brass & Agate Spherical Desk Inkwell

A handsome late-Victorian desk inkwell with a spherical brass body, circular brass tray base, side ring handles, and polished banded agate cabochons.

Made circa 1880–1900, this decorative inkwell has a wonderfully architectural form: a hinged domed lid opens to an integrated central ink reservoir, while four agate mounts — three set into the tray and one on the lid — add rich colour and contrast. The side ring handles and rope-style bezels give it a refined Victorian desk accessory feel.

Unlike many inkstands with removable glass bottles or separate ink pots, the inkwell on this example is integrated into the central spherical body.

Condition: Good antique used condition. The top agate/bezel has a visible crack across one-third of the stone with a chip/loss to a small part of the agate. The ink pot liner appears to be present but because it's not removable, its condition is unknown. The underplate has a warp between two agates that is visible on the side view.  There are tool marks at one end of the inkwell hinge next to the pin.  Please see photos for details.

Dimensions:
Height – 4"
Diameter of tray – 6.25"
Diameter of base - 3.25"
Diameter of central inkwell – 8"
Weight – 767 grams