The Victorians certainly loved these novelty desktop items.
This is an interesting old brass inkwell and pen holder - which takes the form of Daniel Lambert, historically one of the fattest men in Georgian England.
This desktop accessory is not contemporary with Mr Lambert - but dates to a slightly later date, to the end of the 19th century or the very start of the 20th century.
This is also a bit of a beast of an inkwell, and is large in size - it is cast in solid brass and has a good bit of weight to it.
This example is very nicely cast with finer details.
There is a hinged lid and George's head has the glass inkwell liner inside.
He is shown spread out about to tuck into a hearty meal - he has decided that this will be a large roast chicken, which is laid out in front of him.
His legs are spread out on the ground and his little feet turn up at the end - these appendages form a wee pen rest - where you might place a dip pen when not in use.
He is a larger and more substantial inkwell - he measures 6 inches at the widest - has a depth of 6 1/4 inches and the height of the little man is 4 1/2 inches.
My ink well is a genuine antique one with a patina of age. In good condition - with no damages.