Cast metal horse head inkwell – Made in Japan

Collectibles : Writing Instruments : Inkwells

 

What a fun inkwell for the horse lover! This cast metal inkwell features a lifelike horse’s head set against a horseshoe. The horse is painted a brownish gray (with some silver metal showing through at the nose and eye). The bridle and horseshoe are accented in red. The horse’s head is wonderful – showing some veining, flaring nostrils and ears perked up, waiting for the command to be given: Giddiup!!

The face can be lifted (by the ear) to reveal two milk glass inserts. The base is clearly marked with an embossed “Made in Japan.” Above that is a rising sun symbol. The rays of the sun are made up of the letters: HIHIHIHI, while the sun is made of the letters ASA. We have not been able to identify this mark, but the Made in Japan indicates that this was manufactured for export, likely after 1921 and before WWII.

Condition is excellent. There is a little paint chipping on the red part of the horse shoe, but no problems with the metal. The hinge works well but is a tiny bit wobbly. More than likely, it always has been!

The inkstand measures about 5" by 4" and is 3" high - to the tip of the ear.

What a fun piece of writing history! A perfect piece for the inkwell collector – or the horse lover – or the Made in Japan collector! It could become your good luck piece… with that nice red horseshoe!

Item ID: 0396