English Silverplate Double Inkstand

Origin Identification

• Maker: Thomas Harwood (later Thomas Harwood & Sons).
• Origin: Birmingham, England.
• Marking: The stamped TH inside a shaped outline, directly above the pattern/design number 6601, is a standard maker’s punch used by Thomas Harwood’s electroplate workshop.
• Period / Date: Circa 1860–1885 (Victorian Period).

Description

• Tray & Base Structure: An oval, electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) tray featuring a lobed rim finished with a prominent molded beaded border. It rests securely on four stylized cast scroll-and-shell feet and includes integrated foliate-loop handles on either end.
• Surface Decoration: The central field of the tray is decorated with deeply etched/chased Rococo-revival scrollwork, acanthus flourishes, and cross-hatch stippling.
• Central Box / Vessel: Fitted at the center is an oval, hinged covered vessel featuring a matching beaded edge and chased scrolling medallion on the lid, designed as a wafer box, stamp box, or seal box.
• Pen Rest Hooks: Two raised, cast double-curved brackets (pen rests) are mounted directly to the front surface to hold a dip pen.
• Cut Glass Inkwells: Accompanied by two heavy, brilliant-cut clear crystal inkwells featuring deep diamond-cut lower walls, starburst-cut bases, and fitted silverplated collars with hinged dome covers.