A striking and highly unusual 1929 commemorative bronze inkwell celebrating Till Eulenspiegel – the legendary German prankster and folk hero – this solid cast piece was presented by the Jugendbund von St. Johannes ("Youth League of St. John") in memory of Rudolf Schröder.

This finely detailed inkwell features a seated figure of Till Eulenspiegel at the rear, elevated on a plinth inscribed:

Dem lustigen Gesellen Till Eulenspiegel dort errichtet, wo er die Eulen und Meerkatzen buk

(“To the jolly fellow Till Eulenspiegel, raised where he baked the owls and monkeys” – referencing one of his many absurd tales.)

Surrounding the bronze rim are eight small monkey-like figures, each perched on a corner of the hexagonal ‘fountain’ form. The central inkwell is brass-lined and securely housed within the cast structure. The base bears multiple German inscriptions, including:

"Jugendbund von St. Johannes"

"Zur Erinnerung 18.4.29" (In memory, 18th April 1929)

"Unserem lieben Rudolf Schröder" (To our dear Rudolf Schröder)

The underside reveals a hand-poured lead interior surrounding the inkwell’s lining.

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with expected patina and minor signs of age. The detailing is crisp and legible throughout. The piece stands solid and has no structural damage.

Measurements:
Height: approx. 9 cm
Width (across the widest point): approx. 10.5 cm
Depth: approx. 9 cm

A brilliant and surreal addition to any desk, curio shelf, or collection of German folk history and Weimar-era bronze objects.

*** US Buyers - Note that there is still no import tariff on goods valued less than $800 ***