Gorham Silver Traveling Inkwell

An inkwell in the form of a small, portable container made of sterling silver. It has a squat, round shape and a hinged lid. The lid features a unique heart-shaped latch that is used to secure the lid and prevent spills, making it suitable for travel.

The Locking Mechanism

The locking and unlocking mechanism is designed to be secure and spill-proof, a crucial feature for a traveling inkwell. The process is as follows:

1. The small, heart-shaped piece on the lid serves as both a handle and a latch.
2. To open the inkwell, the heart handle is first lifted from its flush position on the lid.
3. Once lifted, it is rotated, which engages an internal mechanism.
4. This action releases the catch, allowing the hinged lid to be opened, revealing the glass inkwell inside.
5. To re-lock, the lid is closed, the heart handle is turned back to its original position, and then pressed down flush with the lid, securing it in place.

Marks and Dating

The marks on the bottom of the inkwell indicate:

• Gorham Mark: The mark consisting of a lion, an anchor, and the letter “G” is the trademark for the Gorham Manufacturing Company, a renowned American silversmith.
• Date Mark: The crescent moon symbol is a date mark used by Gorham. This mark corresponds to the year 1895 in their production records.
• Number “215”: This is a production or pattern number, used by Gorham to identify this specific design from its extensive catalog of items.

Pertinent Information

• Maker: Gorham Manufacturing Company, based in Providence, Rhode Island, was a leading force in American silver production from the mid-19th century onward. The company was known for its high-quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and a wide range of silver products.