Silverplated Stag Inkstand

The inkstand is primarily composed of silver-plated metal (as indicated by the mark), with a glass inkwell. The design features a stag and a froge.

• Base and Stag’s Head: The main body of the inkstand consists of a shaped, contoured base, to which a detailed stag’s head is attached. The stag’s head is rendered realistically, with prominent eyes, a snout, and the textured fur of its neck. The entire metal structure of the inkstand, including the stag, base, and lid, is silver-plated.

• Pen Holder: The stag’s multi-tined antlers serve as a pen holder, providing a resting place for pens. The base is decorated with stylized foliage.

• Glass Inkwell: A clear glass inkwell is nestled into a circular opening in the base. The bottom of the inkwell features a sunburst pattern cut into the glass.
• Inkwell Lid with Frog Finial: The inkwell is covered by a metal lid (matching the silver-plated base), which is not attached by a hinge and simply lifts off. Serving as the handle for this lid is a sculpted frog figure, depicted in a squatting pose.

• Mark: The bottom of the inkstand is clearly marked: “MF’D & PLATED by Reed & Barton”.
• Reed & Barton: This mark definitively identifies the manufacturer as Reed & Barton, a highly reputable American silversmith and metalware company. Founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts, Reed & Barton became one of the leading American producers of silver-plated (and sterling silver) hollowware, flatware, and decorative items. The “MF’D & PLATED” inscription specifically indicates that the piece is a base metal that has been silver-plated, a common and popular process for their extensive line of goods. The company was renowned for its quality craftsmanship and diverse designs.