Mid-20th Century Bénédictine Advertising Ceramic Inkwell - 2¼"

This petite cobalt blue ceramic advertising inkwell dates to the mid 20th century and was made in France for Bénédictine liqueur. Of compact rectangular form with softly rounded corners, it features a glossy glaze, a central black bakélite ink cup, and bold white raised lettering reading LIQUEUR BENEDICTINE to the front. One side bears the inscription DOM accompanied by a small cross, a direct reference to the Benedictine monks: DOM stands for Deo Optimo Maximo (“To God, most good, most great”), a traditional monastic dedication used by the order. Together, the cross and inscription affirm the liqueur’s origins in a Benedictine monastic tradition and reinforce the brand’s historic and spiritual identity.

The inkwell presents in good condition, with a small chip to a lower edge, a few minor losses to the enamel lettering, and light surface wear to the glaze, all consistent with age and use and not detracting from its strong visual appeal.

Bénédictine, produced in Fécamp, Normandy since the late 19th century, promoted its celebrated herbal liqueur through distinctive cobalt-blue display pieces made for hotels, bars, and stationers. Desk inkwells such as this formed part of a broader tradition of branded wares that were both practical objects and effective advertising, reflecting the period’s growing enthusiasm for graphic identity and printed promotion. An easy accent as a paperweight on a writing desk or bookcase, this piece adds a saturated note of color and a subtle sense of Old World charm, appealing equally to collectors of advertising ephemera and lovers of characterful desktop accents. 

Condition and patina consistent with age.
Approx. overall 2¼" high x 4" long x 2¾"
Approx. overall 6cm high x 10cm long x 7cm