Travlelling ink well

[jdm]

Over the years going to gun shows , auctions flea markets looking for old guns I would see alot of interesting stuff . Not always having enough funds to by an old gun  I'd try to pick up some kind of period item.  This is one such item. It's an ink well made to be used on a lap desk or at least  I think that's the idea . . the brass  handle  holds the pen and quill.  I believe at one time there was a glass bottle that went inside.  I found it interesting and wondered what travels it went on.
I.m sure some of you guys have picked up a lot of junk along the way also. It.s always fun to see.

[mr. no gold]

Very interesting find, Jim. I like it! You might float that by art DeCamp; he likes these early ink wells. Honestly, I don't ever remember seeing one before. Gotta love the ALR because if you are patient you can find hens teeth here. Thank you for posting it and enlightening some, or all of us. Much appreciated!
Dick

[Shreckmeister]

Great little item I’ve not seen before

[jdm]

Glad you like it. One day I was looking at a book of John Audubon's prints. There was one of him drawing on a lap desk with an ink well like this one. He had his hand across the handle to hold it in place while he drew. Not to long after that I came across this so I had an idea what I was looking at.

Picture to show where the pen slides in handle.

[Dave Marsh]

Very nice.  I have never seen one either.  Thanks for posting and now I am looking for one darn you!!!!

Dave