Daniel Lambert Figural Inkwell

This inkstand depicts Daniel Lambert (1770-1809), a historical English figure known for his extraordinary size. The design shows Lambert sitting and eating a whole chicken, with his head hinged to open and reveal the inkwell inside. In his youth, Lambert, despite his increasingly large girth, remained fit and active. He worked as a jail keeper and an animal breeder.

As his weight increased, he could no longer work and was granted a small annuity by the town of Leicester in recognition of his excellent service. By this time, Lambert’s girth was enormous; six men of normal size could fit together inside his waistcoat. Stories of his bulk had begun to spread, and travelers visiting Leicester would use various pretexts to visit his home.

To earn a living, for five hours each day, he welcomed visitors into his home, charging each a shilling. Lambert shared his interests and knowledge of sports, dogs and animal husbandry with London’s middle and upper classes, and it soon became highly fashionable to visit him, or become his friend. During this period of English history no real stigma was attached to obesity, and Lambert was generally considered a wonder to be marveled at, rather than a freak to be gawped or sneered at. His business venture was immediately successful, drawing around 400 paying visitors per day. People were drawn not only by his size but also by his intelligence and engaging personality. He became a well-known figure in society. He mixed well with the upper classes, and on one occasion met King George III.

Lambert died in 1809 at the age of 39. In late 1809, the first full biography of Lambert was released. Lambert had become a cult figure, and virtually every item connected with him was preserved for posterity. His clothes and possessions were sold at auction to collectors, and many of them are preserved in museums today.

For more information:

Daniel Lambert – Wikipedia

Daniel Lambert: The Story Of The ‘Fattest Man In England’

Daniel Lambert: England’s Most Famous Fat Man | Amusing Planet

Several examples of Daniel Lambert inkwells are pictured. The oldest are made of cast iron and were hand painted. On most, the head is the hinged cover of the inkwell. Some have a top hat as the cover. Those made of cast iron are likely older than the ones made of brass. One of the brass versions has a pen wipe in the hat.