Antique Victorian Rare Sterling Silver Inkstand / Centrepiece

A magnificent, fine and impressive, rare antique Victorian English sterling silver centrepiece inkstand; an addition to our ornamental Victorian silverware collection.

This magnificent, fine and impressive antique Victorian inkstand in sterling silver has an oval-shaped form.

The original painted ebonised wood stand is surmounted to the centre with an impressive detachable hallmarked fine cast sterling silver ornament, depicting an Arabian male figure and a horse bowed to eat, incorporating a large palm tree.

The horse bears a decorative saddle and incorporates articulating stirrups; these moving components indicate the high quality of the piece.

The elevated central plinth is encompassed with a bead decorated border.

The antique inkstand incorporates four applied C shaped supports, composing two pen stands.

Either end of this unusual Victorian silver inkstand incorporates an silver bead bordered inkwell mount.

The circular ink wells are fitted with hallmarked domed covers, bearing tiered circular finials, replicating an Arabian canopy form.

The push fit covers allow access to the original panelled glass liner, with cut glass star design to the underside.

The pieces will have been crafted in fewer years but due to the hallmarking system the inkstand wells and covers are struck with the date letter 'o' (1869) and the ornament bears 's' (1873).

Such examples are rare and becoming increasingly difficult to locate; this unusual inkstand is the finest of its type you could hope to acquire.

A rare antique silver inkstand is a distinguished statement piece, ideal for collectors and professionals who value history and craftsmanship. Perfect for writers and historians, it serves as both a functional desk accessory and a refined addition to a study, library or office.

Condition

This magnificent rare antique silver inkstand/ornament is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The cast and applied decoration is all very sharp.

Full hallmarks struck to the inkwell mounts, in addition to part hallmarks to the figural ornament are all very clear.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this magnificent example of office antiques.

Dimensions

Length 40.6cm/15.98'

Width 20.5cm/8.07'

Height 37.7cm/14.84'

Weight

77.3 troy ounces/2403.7g

Maker: Charles Frederick Hancock

Date: 1869/1873

Origin: London, England

A video is available upon request.

PLEASE NOTE: AC Silver takes pride in offering only quality items for sale.

This pride in quality includes the professional, efficient and personal service extended to all AC Silver customers.

All items purchased usually dispatched within 24 hours following cleared payment.

All items are professionally and securely packaged, sent FREE of charge and are FULLY INSURED during transit.

FREE worldwide international deliveries are via FedEx International Priority Service.

AC Silver is pleased to provide a 30-day money back guarantee.