Jennings Brothers Inkwell Value Guide

This antique Jennings Brothers inkwell is a prime example of early 20th-century American metalware from Bridgeport, Connecticut. Highly collectible for their intricate Art Nouveau and Art Deco aesthetics, these pieces showcase the superior casting quality the company was renowned for between 1900 and 1920.

What affects the value of Jennings Brothers Inkwell?

• The preservation of the original bronze plating and lack of significant pitting or oxidation.
• The presence of the original lid and functional hinges without repair marks.
• Intricacy of the design, with more elaborate Art Nouveau patterns typically commanding higher prices.
• Overall structural integrity of the ornate handles and decorative casting.

How to Identify Jennings Brothers Inkwell?

• Look for the 'JB' or 'Jennings Bros. Mfg. Co.' hallmark stamped on the underside of the base.
• Examine the metal for high-quality brass construction with original bronze or copper plating finishes.
• Identify the specific Art Nouveau or Art Deco motifs in the ornate handles and lid design characteristic of the 1900-1920 era.
• Check for the presence of the original glass or ceramic well insert often housed within the metal casting.

History of Jennings Brothers Inkwell

Jennings Brothers Manufacturing Company, based in Bridgeport, Connecticut, was renowned for its decorative metalware from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. They specialized in casting items like inkwells, bookends, and statuettes, often finished with bronze or copper plating. Their pieces frequently featured intricate Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs, making them highly collectible today.