Sterling Silver Screw-Top Traveling Inkwell

This traveling inkwell’s compact, cylindrical form and specialized sealing mechanism are hallmarks of high-quality portable stationery from the early 20th century.

Deciphering the Hallmarks

Based on the clear marks, here is the breakdown of the silver hallmarks:

• Maker’s Mark (C&RC): This belongs to Collingwood & Richey Ltd (later Collingwood & Co.). They were prestigious retail jewelers and silversmiths based in London (specifically at 46 Conduit Street). They held Royal Warrants and were known for high-quality silver smalls.
• Lion Passant: The “walking lion” confirms the piece is Sterling Silver (.925 purity).
• Leopard’s Head: This is the town mark for the London Assay Office.
• Date Letter “k”: In the specific London shield format shown, the lowercase “k” corresponds to the year 1925.

Interestingly, there are also “part marks” on the lid and the screw handle. Silversmiths stamped these smaller marks on moving parts to prove that every component of the assembly was sterling silver, not just the main body.

The Screw-Top Mechanism

Portable inkwells had to be “leak-proof” to prevent ink from ruining a traveler’s luggage. This piece uses a robust internal compression seal:

1. The Hinged Lid: The main top is hinged to allow access to the ink reservoir. However, a simple hinge isn’t airtight.
2. The T-Bar Screw: On top of the lid is a “T”-shaped handle attached to a threaded post.
3. The Internal Plug: When the lid is closed, the traveler rotates the T-bar clockwise. This drives the threaded post downward.
4. The Compression Seal: On the underside of the lid, there is a circular plug or washer (often backed with cork or rubber in that era). As the screw is tightened, it forces this plug firmly into the neck of the ink bottle, creating an airtight, pressurized seal that prevents ink from escaping even if the inkwell is turned upside down.

Visual Description

• Form: A cylindrical, drum-shaped body with a slightly flared base and a flat top. The exterior is polished silver with simple, elegant reeded borders around the top and bottom edges.
• Condition: The silver shows a soft patina consistent with its age, with very crisp hallmarks.
• Portability: The lack of sharp corners and the heavy-duty screw mechanism suggest it was intended to be tucked into a leather “Gladstone” bag or a dedicated writing slope.