Cut Crystal Inkwell with Sterling Lid

The Silver Hallmark: Birmingham, 1921

The hallmarks on the silver lid confirm the following details:

• Maker: The Alexander Clark Co. Ltd. The company was founded in 1891 by Alexander Clark and became a limited company in 1912. Their maker’s mark usually appears as “A.C & Co Ld” or “AC over LD” within a shield or oval.
• Town Mark: The Anchor, which is the assay mark for Birmingham, England.
• Date Letter: The lowercase “w” in a shield, which corresponds to the year 1921 for the Birmingham Assay Office.
• Standard Mark: The Lion Passant, confirming the lid is Sterling Silver (.925 purity).

Physical Description

• Cut Crystal Body: The inkwell is made of heavy, high-lead-content crystal. The beveled edges are hand-cut to catch and refract light, a technique that adds both weight and brilliance to the piece.
• Pen Channels: The recessed “grooves” or channels cut into the top surface of the glass are integrated pen rests. These were designed to hold a dip pen horizontally across the top of the well when not in use.
• Starburst Base: The starburst (or sunburst) pattern on the underside is a hallmark of high-quality traditional glass cutting. Beyond its decorative appeal, this deep wheel-cut pattern helps the heavy glass sit securely on a desk surface while hiding scratches that occur from use.
• Hinged Lid: The sterling silver lid is attached by a high-precision hinge to a silver collar.

About Alexander Clark Co. Ltd

Alexander Clark was a prominent “high-class” manufacturer and retailer with showrooms at Fenchurch Street and Oxford Street in London, as well as manufacturing works in Sheffield (Welbeck Works) and Birmingham. They were known for producing luxury goods, including silver plate, high-end cutlery, and fitted dressing cases for the British elite. This inkwell would have been sold as a premium desk accessory.