Silverplated Inkstand with Bird Finial

This silverplated holloware dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. Its elaborate decoration and balanced hexagonal design are characteristic of high-quality English silverplate from manufacturing centers like Sheffield or Birmingham.

Description

The Ornate Tray

The centerpiece of the stand is a large hexagonal tray with a wide, flared rim.

• Edge & Border: The rim features a scalloped, “wavy” edge and is heavily decorated with a combination of piercing (openwork cut-outs) and embossed foliate scrolls.
• Decorative Panels: Within the scalloped sections, there are raised panels. Interestingly, some of these panels appear to feature architectural or geometric motifs (resembling stylized buildings or trellises), which adds a unique touch to the traditional floral patterns.
• Support: The entire piece is elevated on three ornate paw feet.

The Central Inkwell

• Form: The inkwell itself is hexagonal, echoing the shape of the tray, and sits on a tiered, circular pedestal base.
• Body Decoration: The sides of the well are embossed with vertical acanthus leaf or “feather” motifs, which catch the light and add texture.
• Lid & Finial: The hexagonal lid is hinged and features a domed center decorated with a radiating “sunburst” of leaves.
• The Bird Finial: The most striking feature is the cast-metal bird finial, which appears to be a songbird or a dove. It is depicted with its wings slightly outspread and head tilted, serving as both a decorative flourish and a practical handle to open the lid.

The “M.D.M.” Initials

• Monogram: The script style and the fact that they are engraved on the flat, central part of the underside indicate personalization by the owner.

Summary of Style

This piece is a classic inkstand. Its heavy “chasing” (the technique used to create the raised patterns) and the use of the bird finial suggest it was a luxury item.