Dolphin and Shell Standish

This silverplated inkstand is a classic piece of Victorian desk ware designed in the Rococo Revival style. It is frequently referred to as a Dolphin and Shell Standish.

Description

• The Exterior: The stand is modeled as a stylized, ornate dolphin (or sea monster) with a coiled tail and fins, appearing to “hold” or support a large, realistic hinged clam shell.
• The Shell: The shell is decorated with naturalistic ridges and served as the protective cover for the writing tools.
• The Interior (Standish): When the shell is opened, it reveals a removable, fitted metal insert. This interior contains four distinct components:
  • Inkwell: A small reservoir for liquid ink.
  • Sander (Pounce Pot): A perforated container for “pounce” or sand, used to dry wet ink on paper.
  • Storage Compartment: A central well for holding spare pen nibs or sealing wax.
  • Quill Holes: Two or more small circular apertures designed to hold dip pens or quills upright.

Origin and Age

• Where: Dolphin-themed inkstands are typically French. It could have been produced in Germany (by makers like Auerhahn or W.M.F.) or in England (by makers like William Hutton & Sons or Atkin Brothers) – manufacturers known for silverplating.
• When: This design dates to the Late Victorian era (circa 1870–1890). The use of a sander alongside an inkwell is a hallmark of this transitional period, as blotter paper was becoming more common but traditional pounce was still in use.