Ornate Silverplated Inkstand with Candle Holder

This is an ornate, Victorian-style silver-plated inkstand, characterized by its elaborate “Rococo Revival” aesthetics and functional design.

The Stand and Base

The foundation of the set is a large, contoured silver-plated tray.

• Edging: The perimeter is decorated with a scalloped, beaded border interspersed with elaborate acanthus leaf and scrollwork motifs.
• Feet: The entire piece is elevated on four heavy scroll feet, which feature intricate piercing and floral engravings.
• Central Apron: A prominent decorative “apron” or flange sits at the center of the long side, acting as a visual anchor for the tray’s ornate design.

The Crystal Inkwells

The set includes two identical, heavy cut-crystal inkwells.

• Glasswork: The bottles are crafted with a deep diamond-point cut pattern.
• Mounts and Lids: Each inkwell is fitted into a raised, beaded silver collar. The lids are hinged and domed, featuring vertical fluting and topped with a small, tiered finial.

Central Candle Holder

Positioned between the two inkwells is a removable chamberstick-style candle holder.

• Form: It features a slender, baluster-shaped stem and a small socket for a taper candle.
• Decoration: The hexagonal base of the holder is heavily engraved with floral scrolls and finished with a beaded rim that matches the tray’s border.
• Snuffer: The holder has a notch to hold a snuffer – missing here.

Construction and Underside

The underside of the tray reveals the assembly method common for high-quality plated ware of this era.

• Mounting: The central candle holder and the two inkwell collars are secured to the tray using threaded posts and wing nuts.
• Finish: The bottom is finished in the same silver plating as the top, indicating a high level of production quality despite the absence of a specific silversmith’s hallmark.