Inkstands remained out on a writing table or desk, so their visual appeal was important. The “umbrella” inkstand (also called a “paneled pyramid” or a “fluted cone stand”) was a shape popular from the 1840s to the latter part of the century. Intended for post–Civil War New Orleans, the inkstands aboard the Republic were perhaps headed for schools, including new ones established for the former slave population. 
 
Nearly 500 umbrella inkstands were recovered from the SS Republic. The majority of these are the eight-paneled style made from a beautiful aquamarine glass.  When placed in the light, they can display the colors of the rainbow, refracting the sunlight – the result of long exposure to saltwater and its corrosive action on the glass. 
 
Whereas every effort has been made to choose the best examples of shipwreck artifacts for our collectors, some blemishes and imperfections will be evident due to the harsh conditions the pieces have been subjected to during their years in the deep ocean.