Antique Gutta Percha & Brass Pen Holder, Circa 1870

Very unusual brass and gutta percha pen stand with acorn-shaped finials and feet. There are slots for eight pens.

Gutta percha is a tropical tree of Southeast Asia.  The sap or rubbery substance from these trees, introduced in the 1840’s, was used for insulation of electrical cables, waterproofing, golf balls, jewelry and furniture.  It was the forerunner of Bakelite and other plastics.  It could be easily molded and carved. It is now used in dentistry for root canals.

• England Circa 1870
• Height: 6.75" | Width: 9" | Depth: 7"
• Item #3495
• Price: $750