Bronze Inkstand with a Hand Clutching a Rod

This inkstand dates from approximately 1870 to 1890. Based on its design and the specific “hand” motif, it was most likely manufactured in the United States or England.

Description and Materials

• Material: The piece is made of gilt bronze (ormolu).
• Handles: The sides feature detailed serpent or snake handles. In Victorian and Regency design, serpents often symbolize wisdom or eternity.
• Inkwells: There are two square-cut glass inkwells with metal lids. These lids are topped with pinecone or artichoke finials.
• Central Compartment: A rectangular box sits in the center, typically used for holding stamps, pen nibs, or sealing wafers.
• Base: The stand rests on four acanthus-style scroll feet and features a decorative gadrooned apron along the edge.

Significance of the Clenched Fist

The handle on the central lid, depicting a human hand clutching a horizontal rod, is a distinctive motif with several potential layers of meaning:

• The “Pennsylvania Hand”: This specific pattern—a clenched fist holding a bar or scroll—is sometimes referred to by collectors as the “Pennsylvania Hand”. It was a popular motif used by American glass and metal manufacturers like the O’Hara Glass Co. (c. 1880).
• Symbolism of Strength: Fundamentally, the fist represents strength, tenacity, and industry. The rod may symbolize a scroll (representing law or education) or a baton of authority.
• Social and Political Ties: In the mid-to-late 19th century, this motif was sometimes associated with social movements, including labor organization and anti-slavery advocacy.
• Victorian Sentimentality: Victorians were fascinated by “disembodied hands” in decorative arts. These items were seen as highly symbolic of the owner’s character and status, with hand motifs appearing on everything from paper clips to sugar bowls.