Arthur Medlock Hoof Inkwell

Silversmith Arthur Medlock of Inverness Scottish Highlands created this sterling silver mounted taxidermy hoof inkwell. The deer hoof inkwell, with an applied shield and marked Medlock, has a silver lid with a hammered thistle design and a jeweled finial. Mounted on an oval wood base, a pen rest supports the hoof from behind.

Arthur Medlock started in business on his own account in c.1876 from his premises at 35, Castle Street, Inverness. In May 1883 he relocated to the No.6, Bridge Street premises where he was to stay for the rest of his career. He was a known maker of Highland Ornaments and gold jewelry. Although Medlock entered marks at the Edinburgh Assay Office in 1890, most of his output appears to be marked with just a simple ‘MEDLOCK’ and ‘INVss’. In September 1913, Athur Medlock sold his business to James Robert Craik, and the new owner styled his business as Medlock & Craik.