Brass Inkstand by William Tonks & Son

This is a single cast-brass inkstand with a central inkwell and an integrated tray for writing implements.

• Base and Form: The inkstand has a rectangular base with a slightly raised, curved front lip and a distinct, indented pen tray at the front. The edges of the base are decorated with a pattern of beaded and incised lines.
• The Inkwell: A single, central inkwell rises from the back of the base. It is cylindrical and has a hinged lid. The lid is domed with a flattened top, which is adorned with an intricate, low-relief design.
• Decoration: The decoration on the inkstand is a blend of stylized floral or foliate motifs. The lid features a complex, symmetrical pattern with swirling lines and a small central circle. The base and the neck of the inkwell also have similar decorative bands and incised lines.

Manufacturer:

• The mark “WT&S” with a stylized sunburst confirms that the inkstand was made by William Tonks and Sons, a renowned Birmingham-based brass foundry.

History of the Firm

• Founding: The firm was founded by William Tonks in Birmingham, England, either in 1789 or 1794.
• Expansion and Success: They became one of the largest and most prolific metalware companies in Britain during the 19th century. They were known for high-quality production and won gold medals at major international exhibitions, including the London Exhibitions of 1851 and 1862 and the Paris Exhibition of 1855.
• Key Products: While they are known for their architectural hardware (door knockers, window latches, etc.), they also produced a wide range of “art metalware” and domestic items, including candlesticks, magazine racks, fireplace accessories, and inkwells. They were suppliers to famous stores like Liberty’s of London.
• Mark: Their items are often marked with “W T & S” and a stylized sunburst logo.
• Later History: The company’s name was changed to Tonks (Birmingham) Ltd. and later merged with Newman Brothers in the 1970s to form Newman Tonks, which was eventually acquired by Ingersoll-Rand.

Brass Inkwells

William Tonks and Sons produced a variety of brass inkwells. These inkwells are typically distinguished by their quality casting, intricate details, and the use of the firm’s recognizable mark. They are particularly known for inkwells that reflect the prevailing artistic movements of their time.

• Aesthetic and Art Nouveau Styles: Many of their inkwells are designed in the Aesthetic Movement (1860-1900) and Art Nouveau (1890-1910) styles. These pieces often feature organic, nature-inspired motifs such as leaves, stylized flowers, and flowing, sinuous lines. They also produced items in other styles, including more classical or Gothic Revival designs.
• Construction: Tonks inkwells are known for their solid and well-cast construction.