Face of Robert Walpole

It is believed this inkwell is based on a caricature drawing of Robert Walpole (1676-1745) the Whig Politician who is regarded as the first Prime Minister of Great Britain staying in post for over 20 years. Apparently, Walpole was a master at getting his own way through prevarication wearing down the opposition. It worked. He was in the post for 20 years.

For information about Robert Walpole: Robert Walpole – Wikipedia

This inkwell is based on a caricature drawing by George Bickham the Younger dated 1743. Walpole is pictured yawning but in an even more grotesque manner than seen in this inkwell. Walpole’s mouth is wide open almost in the shape of a fish and with severe looking teeth jutting out from it. George Bickham the Younger (c. 1706–1771) was an English etcher, engraver, and one of the first English caricaturists. He produced didactic publications, political caricatures, and pornographic prints.

For information about George Bickham and his satire: Ridiculing Robert Walpole | Apollo Magazine (apollo-magazine.com)

This ceramic inkwell is nicely detailed with Walpole’s grey hair and with a band of mistletoe around the sides. His mouth is wide open with a hole for dipping the pen and another hole on his forehead for resting the pen.