9. The Fountain Pen Blotter
Writing with ink once came with its own set of tools, and the blotter was one of them. This small object helped dry excess ink on the page to avoid smudges. It had a curved base with blotting paper attached underneath and a handle on top. After writing a letter or filling out a form, you’d gently roll the blotter over the ink. It seems unnecessary now with ballpoint pens and keyboards, but it was once essential. Many were beautifully made and now serve as collectibles.