Writing set

Inkwell, KB-204

Paper press, KB-203

tablica

Inventory numbers:      KB-204, KB-203/1, KB-203/2, KB-202
Material:      metal, glass, paper
Dimensions:      KB-204 23.5 x 32.5 cm; KB-203/1 13.7 x 7 cm;  KB-203/2 12.9 x 7.5 cm; KB-202 15 cm
Dating:      late 19th c. / early 20th c.
Origin: Germany

Središnji sadržaj

Bukovac’s writing set that is preserved today consists of an inkwell (KB-204), blotter (KB-203/1), a paper press (KB-203/2), and candle holders (KB-192/1-2 and KB-195).

Letter rack, KB-202

The metal inkwell with gilded elements had two glass inkwells fitted into a convoluted metal frame with indentations and lids. It was crafted in the shape of a stylised acanthus leaf. The back bears the marking DEP. Identical markings and decorations are found on the candle holders KB-192/1-2 and KB-195, as well as on the letter rack (KB-202), suggesting a common manufacturer, dating, and origin of these items.

The blotter and paper press are stylised slightly differently. Two medallions stand out on their upper decorated surfaces, featuring depictions of putti, one holding an envelope, and the other reading a letter. In the middle, there is a rounded handle with convoluted ornaments.

A blotter is a tool equipped with a rounded lower section used for affixing special paper to absorb wet ink from writing. Blotters became popular in the early 19th century when their rounded lower sections were covered with felt. The special paper of the same name is a soft, thicker cardboard material with absorbent properties, first produced by Parker & Son company in the United States in 1856.

Standard elements of such desk sets also included candle holders, letter openers, and similar items. A part of the set is depicted on the secretary desk in the photograph KB-1104/56.

 

Ivanka Bukovac and Anatolij Jaworsky in Prague, 1936, KB-1104/56