George II Antique Silver Inkstand, London 1739.

Object 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. The crest of “a griffin passant ducally gorged” for the Clive family. Almost certainly attributable to Richard Clive of Styche, Shropshire, father of Clive of India.

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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Object 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.

Object Condition

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

Object Details