Images(9)

Inkstand Ink Pot with Cover

Date1749-1750

Marked by Paul de Lamerie (1688-1751)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsH: 1 7/8"; D(rim and base): 1 5/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-181,2A&B

DescriptionInkwell with cover: Baluster shaped with molded and removable cover, high chased masks and foliage on a matted ground surrounding shoulders of bodies, and applied multiple moldings at base. Cover dished with large circular hole in center. Base fitting over molded edge os small henispherical well in base of tray.
Label TextTwo related inkstands by de Lamerie, both having shaped oval trays with cast and applied rococo rims, similar cast and applied decoration on their ink and pounce pots, and lion paw feet are recorded. One of 1734/35 has the addition of a central bell and two pen troughs. The other of 1741/42 has a central taperholder. De Lamerie had earlier utilized oval dishes of very similar design to the tray of this inkstand in his centerpiece of 1734/35, formerly in the Bobrinsky Collection, Moscow. De Lamerie's most important and elaborate inkstand, that of 1741 made for and still owned by the Goldsmiths' Company, London, incorporates a bell given to the company by Sir Robert Vyner in 1667.
InscribedNone
MarkingsMarked in relief 1) "P·L" in script letters with a crown above and a pellet below within a shaped reserve, 2) leopard's head crowned, 3) lion passant, and 4) date letter "o" for 1749-50

ProvenanceSotheby & Co., London (1960)

Exhibition(s)