Inkwell (3) - Brass, Glass

This is an antique double inkstand (encrier) in the characteristic Jugendstil / Art Nouveau style, probably made around 1890–1910.
​Features of this set
​Design & Style: The graceful, whip-like arches and organic flower/plant motifs on the lower part are typical of the Art Nouveau period.
​Material: The stand and the lids are cast in yellow brass (brass) or bronze, fitted with a beautiful patina of age.
​Inkwells: The two loose, square inkwells are made of thick-cut glass or crystal, capped with matching copper lids. Two pots were used in those days for, for example, two ink colours (such as black and red) or ink and blotting sand/powder.
​Functionality: The elongated flat area in front of the inkwells serves as a holder (pen tray) to lay down dip pens or a fountain pen.
The stamp GESCHÜTZT (here stamped as GESCHÜTZT) is the German term for "Copyright protected" or "Patented" (often stated in full Gesetzlich Geschützt).
​This stamp yields a few very useful data points for the inkstand:
​Origin: It confirms that the inkstand is of German or Austrian origin. This is in line with the Jugendstil period (the German-speaking variant of Art Nouveau).
​Dating: This specific type of stamp was predominantly used on metalware between 1890 and 1920.
​Quality & Value: It indicates that it is an original design from that era that was officially registered against counterfeit at the time, and not a later reproduction.
​This stamp confirms the authenticity of the inkstand and more firmly establishes the estimated market value toward €60–€90 (and, if in top condition with undamaged glass, sometimes a bit more for a collector of German Jugendstil copper works).