Inkwell

Art Historical Context

Nestled in The American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art this charming inkwell from Richards and Hartley Flint Glass Co circa 1888, the ingenuity of late 19th-century American glassmaking. Crafted from pressed yellow glass and standing just 2 inches tall, it was a practical desk accessory for the Victorian-era writer or clerk, its vibrant hue adding a touch of warmth to everyday use. Gifted to the museum in 194 by Mrs. Emily Win Miles, it reflects the era's fascination with functional yet decorative household goods. Pressed glass, the innovative medium here, revolutionized American manufacturing during the Gilded Age. Companies like Richards and Hartley in Pittsburgh harnessed steam-powered presses to mold molten glass into precise, ornate shapes—far more affordably than hand-blown or cut glass. This technique enabled mass production of elegant items, making beauty accessible beyond the elite. The inkwell's sunny yellow tint, achieved through metal oxides, highlights the flint glass tradition of clarity and brilliance, blending utility with subtle artistry. As a snapshot of America's industrial boom, this petite piece underscores the cultural shift toward democratized luxury, bridging artistry and commerce in the nation's decorative arts heritage. Visitors will appreciate its modest scale and cheerful glow—a testament to the everyday elegance of 1880s life.

About the Artist

Richards and Hartley Flint Glass Co. · 1867–1890

**Richards & Hartley Flint Glass Co.** Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh's thriving flint glass industry, Richards & Hartley Flint Glass Co. was established in 1865 as a partnership producing pressed tableware. Founded by Joseph Richards, William T. Hartley, and John Wilson, the firm leased property on Locust Street near Pride Street, capitalizing on the region's abundant natural gas and skilled...