English Glass Inkwell with Guilloché Enamel on Sterling Lid

This English glass inkwell, distinguished by its vibrant guilloché enamel and sterling silver lid, dates to 1929.

• Glass Body: The inkwell features a clear glass body with a square form. The bottom portion of the glass has a hobnail pattern. The upper part of the glass is smooth.
• Lid – Sterling Silver and Guilloché Enamel: The most striking feature is the lid, crafted from sterling silver. The top surface of the lid showcases exquisite guilloché enamel in a vibrant yellow hue. Guilloché is a decorative technique in which a very precise, intricate, and repetitive pattern is mechanically engraved into the metal (in this case, silver) before a translucent enamel is applied over it. The enamel allows the engraved pattern beneath to show through, creating a captivating moiré effect and a sense of depth. The yellow color is bright and consistent. The silver rim of the lid is plain, providing a clean frame for the enamel.
• Hallmarks: The sterling silver lid bears specific hallmarks:
  • The lion passant, indicating sterling silver quality (92.5% pure silver).
  • The Birmingham assay office mark, identifying where it was assayed and marked.
  • The maker’s mark for Henry Matthews.
  • A date letter, confirming its production in 1929.