Victorian-era Traveling Inkwell

This is a classic example of a Victorian-era traveling inkwell. It features a heavy, squat body of cut glass and is topped with a sterling silver hinged lid that securely fastens to prevent leaks while traveling. The piece is hallmarked for London, made by John Harris in 1853.

Description of the Inkwell

The body of the inkwell is made from thick, cut glass, with a multi-faceted design. The top is fitted with a hinged lid crafted from sterling silver. The lid’s surface is engraved with a monogram and is hallmarked with the maker’s mark (John Harris), the city mark (London), and the date letter for 1853.

The Lock-Down Mechanism

The ingenious lock-down mechanism uses a screw system to create a watertight seal, making it a “traveling” inkwell.

1. Closing the Lid: When the hinged lid is closed, a threaded post or bolt on the underside of the lid is positioned over a matching hole in the inkwell’s body.
2. Activating the Lock: A small key, attached to the inkwell, is inserted into a keyhole on the top of the lid.
3. Tightening the Seal: Turning the key rotates the threaded post, which screws it down into the body of the inkwell. This action pulls the lid tightly against the top of the inkwell, compressing an inner cork gasket and creating a secure, leak-proof seal. The screw mechanism ensures the lid won’t pop open due to pressure changes or movement.