Inkipedia
Sterling Silver “Treasury” Inkstand
| Categories | Silver |
| Material | Silver |
| Markings | See Narrative |
| Manufacturer | Tessiers |
| Origin | England |
| Date or Era | circa 1939 |
| Measuring | 11” x 7 ¼” x 2 ¼” high |
This is a large-scale, high-quality English Sterling Silver “Treasury” Inkstand, bearing the hallmarks of a distinguished London silversmith.
Provenance and Marks
| Feature | Detail | Verification |
| Maker | Tessiers, Ltd. (Arthur and Frank Parsons) | Confirmed by the makers’ mark on the base. Tessiers was a prestigious firm, often retail jewelers and silversmiths with premises on Bond Street. |
| Maker’s Mark | “AP” over “FP” in a Shield Cartouche | Correctly identifies Arthur and Frank Parsons, the makers registered under Tessiers, Ltd. |
| Material | Sterling Silver | Confirmed by the Lion Passant standard mark. |
| Assay Office | London | Confirmed by the Leopard’s Head town mark. |
| Date Year | 1939 | Confirmed by the specific Date Letter “D” for the London assay office. |
| Mark Placement | Fully Hallmarked | The main set of marks is prominently placed on the base. Correct partial hallmarks are visible on the hinged covers and the central handle, a sign of quality and compliance. |
| Trade Mark | “Tessiers Ltd London.” | This trade name is impressed on the underside of the sterling silver base, verifying its origin from the retail/manufacturing firm. |
Form, Design, and Function
- Model Name: The piece is known as a “Treasury” Inkstand.
- Historical Significance: This style originates from a c.1686 Order placed by the Lord Chamberlain for the use of the Treasury or Privy Council, establishing a long-standing pattern for important government or executive desks.
- Shape and Base: It is of a substantial, rectangular form, giving it the imposing size appropriate for a “Treasury” model.
- Feet: The base is supported by four claw feet.
- Central Feature: A central bail handle is fitted to the center of the base, allowing the entire inkstand to be carried easily.
- Layout (Compartments): The interior is divided into two major sections, each with its own hinged cover:
- Pen Compartment: One long compartment is designed specifically for storing pens.
- Ink & Storage Compartment: The second section is subdivided into three areas:
- Two recessed openings hold the Silver-Mounted Glass Inkwells. These inkwells feature sterling silver collars and are seated securely within the base.
- A larger central compartment, situated between the two inkwells, is typically used for storing nibs, sealing wax, stamps, or small desk accessories.
- Lids/Covers: The two large lids are hinged and fit flush with the body when closed.
Sold for $3319 in September 2025
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
Join the Society of Inkwell Collectors (SOIC) – it’s free!
Founded in 1981 as a non-profit organization,
we are documenting inkwells (and accessories).
We’re here to help and inform!