Circa 1895 Black, Starr & Frost Brilliant Cut Crystal & Sterling Inkwell

An exceptional American Gilded Age luxury desk accessory, this heavy, hand-cut crystal inkwell exemplifies the premier craftsmanship retailed by New York silversmiths and luxury purveyors Black, Starr & Frost at the turn of the 20th century.

Design & Craftsmanship

• Form & Faceting: Cut from thick, water-clear lead crystal with a flared bell base. The upper body features broad vertical mitre cuts and panels that transition seamlessly into the sweeping skirt.
• Brilliant Cut Base: The underside showcases an intricate, deeply cut multi-point starburst and hobstar rosette with geometric diamond facets, designed to refract light brilliantly through the base.
• Sterling Silver Mount: Capped with a substantial, stepped domed sterling silver lid attached to a five-knuckle hinge. The silver collar is stamped with the maker’s mark: BLACK STARR & FROST STERLING 1395/1.
• Interior Reservoir & Vermeil: The interior of the lid and collar rim retain a rich, original gold wash (vermeil) to protect the silver from corrosive iron-gall inks. It houses its original, removable clear glass cylinder inkwell liner with a flared lip.

Summary Specifications

• Retailer / Maker: Black, Starr & Frost (New York)
• Period: Circa 1895–1900 (American Brilliant Cut Glass / Gilded Age)
• Materials: Lead crystal, sterling silver, gold wash (vermeil), blown glass insert
• Hallmarks: BLACK STARR & FROST STERLING 1395/1 along the lower collar rim