Help...is this an antique hammered copper ink well??

I'm at this store right now and this looks pretty old. It appears to be a hammered copper ink well. It has wood on the top. The seller is asking $125. What do you think?

 

It is likely an inkwell and should have a glass insert if it is. The knob on top does not seem original to me. I think $125.00 is overpriced for an unmarked piece with a replaced knob. It does appear to be an arts and crafts period piece.

 

I don't know how the seller would feel if I asked if he could clean the bottom of this to see if there's any markings. I did scratch away some of this stuff and it appeared to be very old wax. I was going to take a pic of the top from the inside but forgot to.

It does not have a glass insert.

 

Hi Joe,
With the replaced top, no insert and I think the hinge pin is not right either. 125 is way too high, at 20 bucks I might take a chance.
greg

 

Looks like that piece is in an "antique" store in which case that is a retail price and you probably could bargain it a bit lower. But, I agree with the others, good, but you can likely find better for same or less money.

 

The owner has stated that if a piece has been in the store for over a year, they can mark them down a little. I still think that he marks them up way to much.

 

It rings a bell but never really looked into it. I'll have to give it a shot. It's like music, I like a little bit of everything.

 

I don't collect or sell them, but I do appreciate nice-looking handmade metal objects. I don't think lid was replaced that's just the way it was made-reflects the limited skill of the maker. I just don't like this one-don't find it stylish and I think you would be hiking uphill trying to sell it even with a two-digit price.

 

if he's asking 125 why is there a 9 on the price tag ??

i'd leave it where it sits !!!!

 

I guess he couldn't remember his own price.