Silver Inkstand with Perpetual Calendar

This is a multi-functional desk accessory. Crafted from sterling silver, this piece combines several essential desktop items into one organized unit.

At the top, a perpetual calendar takes center stage. It features a semicircular or curved display showing the days of the month, arranged numerically. A central knob allows the user to rotate this dial, aligning the numbers with the days of the week. This mechanism eliminates the need for annual calendar replacements, making it a “perpetual” solution.

Below the calendar, the central section houses the inkwell and pen holder. An inkwell with a hinged lid sits prominently in the middle. Flanking the inkwell are integrated supports to hold a dip pen.

The base of the piece incorporates a stamp storage holder. A hinged lid covers this compartment. When closed, this lid features four encased postage stamps. These stamps range in denomination from “half penny” up to “3d” (three pence), showcasing a common range of postal rates of the time. Upon lifting the hinged lid, the inside reveals four individual slots specifically designed to hold stamps.

The piece is hallmarked for the city of Chester, Grey & Co., and dated 1911.