Traveling Lock-Down Inkwell

This is an example of an English Sterling Silver and Glass Traveling Inkwell (or Portable Ink Bottle), precisely dated to the early Victorian period.

Physical Description & Hallmarks

• Type: Portable/Traveling Inkwell
• Material: Sterling Silver and Cut Glass.
• Form: The inkwell has a heavy, rectangular, faceted glass base that serves as the ink reservoir. The silver components form the top and lid of the bottle.
  • Glass Base: The base is a thick-walled, rectangular block of clear glass.
  • Silver Top: A sterling silver collar is fitted tightly around the rim of the glass base. This collar holds the hinged lid and the locking mechanism.
• Finish (Color): The sterling silver has a gold appearance due to a process called Gilding or Vermeil.
  • Gilding: This is a layer of gold applied over the sterling silver base. This technique was used both for its decorative luxury and, critically, to protect the silver from the corrosive and staining effects of acidic ink.
• Hallmarks: The marks confirm the piece’s provenance:
  • Material: Sterling (Lion Passant)
  • Assay Office: London (Leopard’s Head)
  • Date Year: 1836 (Indicated by a specific date letter)
  • Maker: T.D. (for silversmith Thomas Diller)

Mechanism: The Thumbscrew Lock-Down

The ingenious lock-down mechanism is what distinguishes this as a traveling inkwell, ensuring a spill-proof seal for safe transport.

1. Lid & Seal: The top is secured by a hinged silver lid. The interior of this lid contains a leather seal, which acts as the primary gasket.
2. Locking Function: The lock-down function is operated by a visible thumbscrew (or locking nut) located on the top of the silver collar/lid assembly.
   • To Seal (Lock-Down): The user closes the hinged lid and then turns the thumbscrew.
   • The turning of the screw causes a downward force, mechanically compressing the hinged silver lid against the rim, which, in turn, presses the interior leather seal tightly against the mouth of the inkwell.
3. Result: This mechanical compression creates a secure, air-tight, and liquid-tight seal, preventing ink from escaping even if the bottle is inverted or shaken violently during travel in a coach or saddlebag.