Tortoiseshell & Silver Inkwell by Asprey (London, 1903)

This inkwell is made from tortoiseshell and sterling silver by the renowned firm Charles & George Asprey, hallmarked London, 1903.

Body & Material

• The inkwell’s body is formed from tortoiseshell, likely sourced from Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill sea turtle), prized for its rich, translucent layering and flame-like mottling.
• The surface reveals organic depth and variation, with warm amber and deep brown tones that shift subtly under light.
• A long vertical crack visible on one side follows the natural grain of the shell—an indicator of its keratinous origin and age-related stress, consistent with genuine tortoiseshell rather than synthetic imitation.

Lid & Interior

• The hinged lid opens to reveal a striking interior, echoing the tortoiseshell’s flame motif in vivid yellows and oranges.
• The ink reservoir is fitted with a removable glass liner.

Silver Mounts & Hallmarks

• The silver framework—including the rim, hinge, and collar—is finely executed and bears clear British hallmarks:
  • Maker’s mark: C&GA for Charles & George Asprey.
  • Lion passant: Denoting sterling silver.
  • Leopard’s head: Assay mark for London.
  • Date letter “h”: Confirming the year 1903.