Today's ink pen is another convenience that we take completely for granted. But prior to about 1850, when the fountain pen came into production, any writing was done by dipping a quill into ink. And of course, if you're going to have ink, you need a place to keep it...like an ink well. This beautiful little specimen may remind Harry Potter fans of the Golden Snitch, but there's nothing remotely magical about it. The base holds a glass jar that would be filled with ink. That jar would be capped, and another lid placed over it, to hopefully prevent ink spills. The beautiful moon and star decorations showcased the artistry that went into even this simple household device.