Silver & Ruby Cut-Glass Inkstand

Description

• Plated Tray & Stand: The rectangular silverplated tray features an engine-turned/flat center surface framed by a decorative geometric border with repeating triangular/beaded motifs. It is supported by four cast, ornate paw-and-leaf corner feet and is equipped with openwork stylized handles at both narrow ends. Two center screw fittings on the underside secure the central inkwell collar/holder.
• Glass Inkwell with Ruby Accents: The central inkwell is a squat, rounded bulbous vessel crafted from heavy cut crystal/glass. Around the middle circumference, it features a band of geometric diamond cuts with ruby-stained (or ruby-flashed) faceted panels embedded within the diamond matrix. The upper shoulder and lower body are detailed with vertical flute cuts. The inkwell rests on a beaded silver mount and is topped with a matching silver collar and hinged cap.

Marks & Silver Purity

• Hallmarks: Visible on the exterior collar and on the underside of the hinged lid is a small rectangular punch mark containing 800, indicating 800 Continental Fine Silver (80% pure silver, standard for Continental European silverware).
• Adjacent Maker’s Mark: Next to the 800 standard mark is a small initials/symbol punch mark (a maker’s mark/hallmark stamp).

Age & Origin

• Age: Circa 1900–1920
• Maker / Origin: Made in Continental Europe (most likely Germany, Austria-Hungary, or Italy), where .800 standard silver was widely used for desk accessories and mounts, often paired with Bohemian cut and ruby-stained glass.