George II Antique Silver Inkstand

Description

A fabulous quality early English silver inkstand of shaped rectangular design raised on four cast ball and claw feet. The tray has 2 integral pen trays and is mounted on top with two cylindrical containers for ink and sand. The charming little hand bell in the centre was used to call the servant. Each piece bears the hand engraved crest of a griffin.

Weight 1550g, 49.8 troy oz.
Height 16.5cm. Length 28.3cm (11.1ins). Width 21.8cm.
London 1739.
Maker John Luff.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped underneath the tray and 2 bottles with a full set of English silver hallmarks, the bell is unmarked. Inkstand bells were seldom fully marked but sometimes have the lion and maker’s marks.

Crest. Families using this crest are Cleve/Cliff/Clive, Evelyn, Finch(e), and Wentworth.

Literature. The inkstand did not enter into common household use until the 18th century. The main requirement was a container for ink and another for sand (or pounce) which was used for drying the ink. Also required was a space to put quills. Some inkstands also incorporated a taper stick for melting sealing wax or even a bell.

All pieces are in very good condition with a small amount of wear commensurate with age. Slight wear to the engravings.

Maker: John Luff

John Luff, London silversmith, apprenticed to William Warham 1711, free 1724. 1st and 2nd marks entered as smallworker 1724. 3rd mark 1739.

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