Queen Victoria Crown Inkstand

This inkwell is designed in the form of a crown, commemorating Queen Victoria. The crown features several symbolic elements:

• Cross at the Top: Symbolizes the Christian faith, significant during Queen Victoria’s reign.
• Spherical Element: Represents the globe, signifying the British Empire’s vast reach during the Victorian era.
• Beaded Arches: Connect the top of the crown to its base, symbolizing unity and strength.
• Embossed Shapes and Patterns: Reflect the ornate style of the Victorian period. The fleur-de-lis, which translates to “flower of the lily,” is a stylized lily flower that has been used as a decorative design or symbol. It is often associated with purity, light, and life. While it is most famously linked to French heraldry and the French monarchy, it has also been adopted by other European countries and institutions. In the context of this inkwell, the fleur-de-lis elements likely serve to enhance the overall aesthetic and convey a sense of elegance and nobility, fitting for a piece commemorating Queen Victoria.
• Hinged Top Piece: Allows the crown to open, revealing the inkwell inside.
• Brass Lid with Queen Victoria’s Bust: The raised bust of Queen Victoria on the lid serves as a tribute to her, highlighting her importance and legacy.
• Registry Mark “57256”: Believed to date the piece to 1886.

When the crown is opened, it reveals a glass container with a faceted design, topped with a metal lid that has a profile of Queen Victoria embossed on it.