Inkstand tray

Date1745-1746

Artist/Maker Robert Innes

MediumSilver

DimensionsOH: 5"; OL: 10 17/32"; OW: 7 5/8".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1954-571,1

DescriptionInkstand tray: rounded rectangular tray with cast alternate flute-and -gadroon rim with shell at each corner and in center of each side; short convex sides with corner indentions to flat base; recessed half-tubular well of rectangular plan for writing implements placed lengthwise in front of three practially-recessed hemispherical wells with projecting rims fitting within base moldings of pounce pot, bell, and ink pot; tray supported on four cast voluted feet with an acanthus-leaf overlay.Label TextEighteenth-century inkstands often have a salver-like tray with a cast and applied rim on its short sides and short, cast, corner feet. The tray is usually fitted with ink and pounce pots, sometimes flanking a central bell or taperstick. Occasionally, a wafer box is included, or the wafers can be housed in the hemispherical wells usually beneath the various components.

The 1770 inventory of the estate of Lord Botetourt lists "1 [silver] writing stand Bell & 2 Casters" with the "Plate, in the Pantry" of the Governor's Palace in Williamsburg.Inscription(s)NoneMark(s)Maker's mark "RI" in block letters with a raised mullet between within a rectangle on underside of tray.ProvenanceE. T. Biggs & Sons, Maidenhead, Berkshire, 1954
Garrard & Co. Ltd., London