Victorian Engraved Silver Treasury Inkstand

A fine Victorian silver Treasury Inkstand.

It is in the typical form of a low oblong box, resting on four ball feet. It has a double lid, centrally hinged back to back, which is engraved with straps and cartouches at each corner. Inside each cartouche a man's or woman's head is engraved.

Under one lid is a long narrow compartment for pens. Under the other lid are two square ink boxes with clear glass liners (1 modern replacement) for ink, and a vacant central compartment for sealing wax, seals and pounce [a fine powder made from fish bones to smooth the surface of the paper before writing].

This style of inkstand is referred to as a 'Treasury Inkstand' because it was first commissioned in 1686 by the Lord Chamberlain of England for the Treasury and the Privy Council in London. This is a slightly smaller version than the originals.

This fine Victorian silver Treasury Inkstand was made in 1870 by Robert Garrard of London.