Inkipedia
Silverplated Combination Inkstand / Letter Holder
| Categories | Dual Purpose Inkstands, Silver |
| Type | Letter Holder / Inkstand |
| Material | Silverplate |
| Manufacturer | Barbour Silver Co |
| Origin | United States |
| Date or Era | circa 1900 |
| Measuring | 8” x 4” x 5 ¾” high |
The inkstand’s exterior features multiple repousse panels, each showing people engaged in various activities – social interaction in a pub, a man pushing a wheelbarrow, agrarian scenes. The hinged lid in the front opens to reveal two glass inkwells, a pen wipe, and a storage compartment.
Two brothers founded the Barbour Brothers Co. in 1881 or 1882. Initially, they sold silver-plated products from I. J. Steane & Co. of Hartford, Connecticut. However, by 1889, they began manufacturing their own wares at their shop on 64 Market Street in downtown Hartford. The company specialized in engraved or chased pieces, with bases made of nickel silver.
Sold for $94 in January 2024
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