Inkwells & Dip Pens

Before fountain pens were invented, people used dip pens that had to be dipped into inkwells. An inkwell is a small jar made of glass, silver, brass or porcelain. The jar or container holds ink for dipping quill pens, brushes and dip pens.

Inkwells date back to the Middle Ages when craftsmen made the pens and wells by hand. Goldsmiths and silversmiths were the primary creators of inkwells. Those who used inkwells and dip pens were noblemen and church members.

Dip pens, also called nib pens, often have metal nibs and wooden holders. The nibs have channels that are very similar to fountain pens. Unlike fountain pens, dip pens can use India ink, drawing ink, acrylic ink or other water-based inks. Dip pens also have a variety of nibs that can be changed to achieve different effects.

Filling an inkwell and dipping a pen into it creates a different experience for the writer. Inkwells have screwed or hinged lids. This helps keep the ink from spilling, evaporating, and contamination. Inkwells can be simple or highly ornate.

Fountain pen enthusiasts love collecting inkwells from centuries ago. Most collectable and antique inkwells come from Europe and the United States.

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