Sterling Silver and Cut-Glass Inkstand

This John Round & Son sterling silver and glass inkstand combines the weight of English lead crystal with the ornate silver craftsmanship for which Sheffield was world-renowned.

Description

• The Glass Base: The foundation is a massive, rectangular block of heavy cut glass. It features a recessed, dished pen tray running centrally between the two inkwells, designed to hold a dip pen.
• The Hobnail Pattern: The underside of the glass is decorated with a deep hobnail cut. This geometric pattern of raised diamond-like points not only provides a dazzling refractive quality when viewed through the top but also adds significant weight and stability to the standish.
• The Inkwells: Two matching clear glass reservoirs are integrated into the base. They are topped with sterling silver collars and hinged lids.
• The Silver Decoration: The lids are heavily embossed with swirling floral and foliate (leaf) designs in a style often referred to as Late-Victorian Rococo Revival.

Maker: John Round & Son

The hallmarks identify the manufacturer as John Round & Son Ltd., one of the most successful silver and electroplating firms in Sheffield history.

• History: Established by John Round in 1847 in a small workshop attached to his home, the firm grew into a massive operation at the “Tudor Works” on Tudor Street. By the time this piece was made in 1898, they were employing hundreds of workers and were famous for their high-quality cutlery and desk accessories.
• The Hallmarks: Both the collar and the lid bear the full English hallmarks for Sheffield, 1898 (the lion passant for sterling, the crown for Sheffield, and the date letter ‘f’ in a shield). The maker’s mark “JR&S” or “JR” in a shield confirms the production.

Historical Significance

By 1898, desk sets like this were the height of functional luxury. John Round & Son were masters of the “Yokohama Style” and other export-inspired motifs, often using agents in London and Paris to reach elite clientele.