Inkwells are containers for holding ink used with quills and nibs, and to refill fountain pen cartridges. They can be made of glass, porcelain, stone, metal, wood or plastic. Inkwells have lids to prevent evaporation and contamination. Antique inkwells are collectibles.
An inkwell is a container used to hold ink. Inkwells can be used by people who use quills and nibs, and can also be used to refill fountain pen cartridges. While the use of inkwells has declined, they are still available in some art supply stores, and many high-end writing ink containers are available in jars designed to function as inkwells in addition to storage containers.
The materials used to make an inkwell vary. Glass, porcelain and stone are all very common because they are non-reactive, so they won’t stain the ink. However, metals such as pewter can be used, along with wood and even plastic. Classically, inkwells have lids that can be used to prevent evaporation and contamination, and some are designed to be screwed shut so that the inkwell can be transported, which is handy for travellers.
Some antique desks and desk sets have built-in inkwells, a testament to how widespread the use of nib pens was until the 20th century. Such pens must be repeatedly dipped in ink as the user writes, instead of being continuously fed by a tube inside the pen. As you can imagine, learning to work with quills and inkwells can be a bit challenging, as it’s easy to create ink blobs and blobs by being distracted.
There are a number of reasons to use an inkwell and a nib pen, rather than a fountain pen or ballpoint. Many people who practice calligraphy use an inkwell because it is traditional and because it is easier to switch from one nib width to another. Others simply enjoy the experience of using a traditional nib pen, and some people may explore nib pens while working on story projects. One handy thing about nib pens is that changing colors is quite easy, as the pen simply needs to be rinsed before it can be dipped in a new colour.
Antique inkwells are considered by some people to be a collector’s item and can command a steep price. Antique stores, auctions, and estate sales are all good sources for antique inkwells, though people should be careful to evaluate antiques before buying to ensure they are authentic. For people who just want an inkwell, rather than a conversation piece or work of art, an art store is your best bet, although small jars like those used to hold condiments can also be very handy in a pinch.
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