Inkipedia
German Silver and Cut Crystal Inkstand
| Categories | Silver |
| Material | Glass, Silver |
| Markings | See narrative |
| Manufacturer | H. Schaper |
| Origin | Germany |
| Date or Era | circa 1890 |
| Measuring | 10” x 10” x 7 ¼” high |
- The Markings and Origin
- The Hallmarks: The “Half Moon and Crown” (in German: Halbmond und Krone) is the official German Imperial Hallmark for silver, established in 1888. This inkwell dates to the late 19th or early 20th century (c. 1890–1915).
- Moon: Symbolizes Silver.
- Crown: Symbolizes the German Reich (State).
- .800: This indicates the purity of the silver is 800/1000 (80% silver). This was the standard purity for German and Continental silver (unlike Sterling, which is .925).
- “H. Schaper”: This is the mark of the maker or retailer. H. Schaper was a prestigious German jeweler and silversmith firm, likely Hugo Schaper of Berlin, who held the title of Hofjuwelier (Court Jeweler). Items marked by Schaper are known for their exceptional quality and heavy gauge silver.
- The Number “54075”: This is a serial number or model number used by the Schaper workshop to track their inventory.
- The Design
- The “Crown” Lid: The hinged lid is modeled in a Neo-Baroque style with heavy lobes and floral repoussé work, giving it the appearance of a royal crown or a bishop’s mitre. The richness of the silver work suggests this was a high-end luxury item.
- The Crystal: The inkwell body is a massive block of clear lead crystal.
- The Cut: It features chamfered (beveled) corners and a deep diamond or waffle cut pattern on the base. This cutting style was practical as well as beautiful.
- The Tray: The crystal block sits loosely into a fitted square depression in the silver tray. The tray features raised, scrolling Rococo-style corners and rests on four solid bun feet.
Sold for $618 in November 2025
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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