Double Inkstand with Postal Scale

Several examples are shown, all with similar characteristics. The bases are made of wood – often oak, walnut, or mahogany -with lacquered black trim and brass decorative fittings. The scales are made of brass and have an assortment of weights. Some have dovetailed, pull-out drawers. All have clear glass inkwells with hinged lids.

#1 (pictures 1-3): Features decorative brass filigree, ebonized wood trim, a pen channel, and a drawer. 12” x 9 ½” x 6 ½” high. Sold for $360 in February 2023.

#2 (pictures 4 & 5): Pen channel in front, a circular indentation for the weights. Base: 12” x 5” – Sold for $63 in April 2022

#3 (picture 6): Burl wood, circular indentation for the weights. 11 ⅛ x 6 ¾” x 4” high. Sold for $63 in April 2007.

#4 (pictures 7-11): Complete set of weights, pen channel. Sold for $121 in May 2022.

#5 (pictures 12-16): Burled oak, pen channel, drawer, set of weights. Sold for $128 in October 2013.

#6 (pictures 17-24): Stemmed inkwells with separate brass lids, stacked weights, two lidded storage compartments, pull-out drawer. Base: 14 ½” x 8 ½”. Sold for $475 in March 2021.

#7 (pictures 25-30): Brass filigree trim, pull-out drawer, weights. 12 ¼” x 9 ⅜” x 11”. Sold for $162 in November 2020.

#8 (pictures 31-31): Oak base with bun feet, stacked weights. 11 ½” x 8 ½” x 5 ½” high. Sold for $267 in May 2020.

#9 (pictures 32-35): Oak base, ornate scale, stacked weights, pen channel. Sold for $200 in February 2016.

#10 (pictures 36-40): English mid-19^th century burl walnut desk organizer comprising a postal scale and six stacking weights, two cut glass inkwells with brass collars, and a pen rest. This serpentine shaped two-tiered desk organizer has a superb burl walnut surface, set off by ebonized edge detailing and low ebonized bun feet. The scale is signed by the maker or possibly the retailer: Parkins and Gotto, 24 and 25 Oxford St. Circa 1860. 15” x 11” x 7” high. Sold for $2285.