Historical information

This ink well could have been for household use but was more likely to have been used in an office or business. No information has been found on the name on the base – A.R. McLachlan. Ink wells began to be less used when fountain pens came into general use in the 1940s and went out of use completely when ballpoint pens became the popular writing instrument in the 1950s.

Significance

This ink well is of interest as an example of the ink wells used early in the 20th century. It was probably used in an office or business building.

Physical description

This is a metal container with a circular base and an upright circular tube in which is inset a china ink well. The ink well is covered with a hinged metal lid and there are four round holes around the lid area. Both the lid and the base are etched with circular ridges.

Inscriptions & markings

‘A.R.McLachlan 1920’