18th Century Swiss Solid Silver Rococo Inkstand

This solid silver inkstand is an 18^th century Rococo piece originating from Zürich, Switzerland.

Key Features & Design

• Base & Rim: Built as a double-tiered oval tray resting on four scrolled cabriole feet. Both the upper platform and lower base apron feature scalloped, molded edges.
• Pounce Pot (Sander): Positioned on one side, featuring a wide cylindrical body and a pierced cover decorated with a starburst/floral motif for sifting sand over wet ink.
• Inkwell: Positioned opposite the pounce pot, featuring a stepped domed collar and a fitted stopper lid topped with an open ring finial and cork liner.
• Pen Holders: Three central angled cylindrical tubes designed to hold quill pens erect.

Hallmark Identification & Origin

• City Mark (Z): The single capital letter Z punch is the official city hallmark for Zürich, Switzerland, used during the 18th century.
• Assay Mark (Zigzag Line): The hand-cut zigzag line (WWWWWW) directly below the hallmark is a Tremolierstrich (trembloter assay scrape). Assay Masters across German-speaking Europe and Switzerland scraped off a tiny sample of metal with a curved gouge to test the silver’s fineness before applying the official stamp.
• Maker’s Mark: The punch stamped alongside the Z represents the master silversmith operating in Zürich.

Date

• Period: Mid-to-late 18th century (circa 1750–1780). The overall Rococo silhouette—evidenced by the scrolling feet, shell/scalloped borders, and the presence of a Tremolierstrich—aligns with Swiss silversmithing of this era.