Silver Inkstand with St. George vs. Dragon Motif

This ornate sterling silver inkstand is an example of Victorian “Late Romantic” silverwork, produced by a short-lived but prestigious London firm.

Physical Description

• Central Design: The inkstand features a highly detailed, chased, and embossed scene of a classical rider (knight) armed with a spear, in the heat of a hunt or battle against a mythical dragon-like beast. The scene is set in a lush, pastoral landscape with rose-like floral clusters.
• The Inkwell: At the center sits a dome-shaped inkwell. The lower section of the housing is decorated with pierced (openwork) scrolls and putti (cherubs), allowing the cranberry glass liner to show through the metalwork.
• The Border: The entire stand is framed by a delicate pierced gallery border featuring heart-shaped or clover-like motifs.
• Feet: The piece rests on three discrete bun feet.

Hallmark Interpretation

The hallmarks found on the tray provide a definitive history of the piece:

• Maker’s Mark (H’s BROS): Identifies the silversmiths as Harris Brothers. This firm was founded by Arthur Stuart Harris and Ernest Stuart Harris, the sons of the prolific London maker Charles Stuart Harris.
• Standard Mark (Lion Passant): Guarantees the piece is 92.5% pure sterling silver.
• Town Mark (Leopard’s Head): Confirms the item was assayed in London.
• Date Letter (“a”): The lowercase “a” in this shield shape signifies the year 1896 in the London assay cycle.

Historical Significance & Age

• The Maker’s Legacy: Harris Brothers was only active under this specific name for a very brief window, from 1896 to 1897, before being absorbed into their father’s firm, C.S. Harris & Sons. This makes this inkstand a rare survivor from their independent production.
• Subject Matter: The rider and beast are a popular Victorian interpretation of St. George and the Dragon, England’s national patron saint. This heroic motif was frequently used on luxury desk items during the late 19th century to represent courage and English heritage.
• Estimated Age: 1896.