Crystal Inkwell with Silver Lid Engraved 1882

This late Victorian crystal inkwell is an example of luxury desk-ware from the year 1882. Its design combines the weight and clarity of heavy Victorian flint glass with the refined elegance of precious metalwork.

Description

• The Body: Crafted from heavy, high-quality cut crystal glass.
• The Lid: A pull-off (friction-fit) sterling silver cap.
• The Engraving: The inscription “5 Sept 1882” is a personalized commemorative mark. This suggests the inkwell may have been a high-status gift for an anniversary, a promotion, or a birthday.

Origin:

It is highly likely that this piece is English (specifically from the silver-working hubs of Birmingham or London).

• Date Format: The format “5 Sept 1882” (Day-Month-Year) is the traditional British dating style. In the United States during this era, the month was almost always placed first (e.g., “Sept 5, 1882”).
• Manufacturing Context: In the 1880s, English silversmiths like John Grinsell & Sons (Birmingham) and William Comyns (London) were world-renowned for producing these specific “silver-topped” crystal accessories.

Historical Significance

1882 was the height of the Victorian “Golden Age” of writing. A piece like this would have sat on an elegant lady’s bonheur du jour or a gentleman’s library desk, reflecting the owner’s taste and the importance of handwritten correspondence.