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Welcome to the world of inkwells!

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My name is Leonid Belsky

I have been collecting inkwells for many years. My collection include over 500 inkwells from the 1st century AD to the 21st century.

In my collection, there are inkwells  from over 50 countries, crafted from an array of materials including silver, bronze, brass, porcelain, ceramic, pewter, cast iron, glass, wood, bones and various others.

My collection also include a wide range of antique ink writting tools and accessories.

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World of inkwells

Explore the transformation of inkwells, from simple, utilitarian vessels to ornate and luxurious items that became symbols of wealth and artistic expression.

The earliest forms of inkwells can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. In Europe, prior to the sixteenth century, writing was considered to be a lowly task. A scribe would write using a quill pen and ink on behalf of the aristocrat.

From the seventeenth century onwards the art of writing spread across Europe and inkwells became more decorative. Inkwells made from porcelain, sterling silver, pewter, cast iron, brass, wood, and other natural materials became fashionable.

I invite you to the world of inkwells!​​

Twelve inkwells from Leonid Belsky's collection, each representing a unique piece of writing history!

Inside the Exhibition:
2-Minute Preview

"The mysterious world of inkwells". Exibition at Mytishy Art Gallery.
 

"Animal inkwells".
Exhibition at Moscow Darwin Museum.

Selected inkwells from Leonid Belsky collection. 

The History of Ink Writing: A Journey Through Time and Tools

 

"In an age of technology where e-mail, texting, and Twitter have become ubiquitous, handwriting are considered archaic and irrelevant by young people. Once-commonplace tools,  inkwells become forgotten......"

 

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Beginning in 2021, I launched a series of exhibitions and workshops built around my collection. These initiatives aim to introduce the public to the rich and captivating history of ink-based writing culture, tracing its development through the centuries.

"The History of Ink Writing" project objectives are:

  • Organize educational exhibitions to engage young people and spark their interest in handwriting, inkwells, and ink writing tools.

  • Conduct handwriting workshops where visitors can explore the art of writing using old fashioned tools, such as reeds, quills, and dip pens.

  • Publish captivating stories about inkwells and ink writing tools.​​​

Inside the Exhibition:
3D tour 

Watch selected TV Reports 

Exhibition opening at  Darwin  Museum

Exhibition opening at  Lubertsy Museum
 

Exhibition opening at Serpuhov Art Gallery
 

The History of Ink Writing project achievements: 

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Museum of private collectors 

In 2024 my collection became a foundation for a new museum!

© Леонид Бельский, 2021-2025

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