Antiques, Collectables, Silver, Furniture, Taxidermy, Curios, Job lots, Clocks,Computer and console Games, Railwayana, Miners Lamps and much more
Lot 198:
Description
A Victorian silver plated novelty desk inkwell realistically modelled in the form of an Indian elephant’s head. The piece features a textured skin finish and is mounted upon a polished, stepped circular base. The hinged lid at the crown of the head is decorated with chased scrolling foliate patterns representing a caparison and is surmounted by a finial of a seated monkey playing a wind instrument. The elephant is depicted with flared ears and two smooth tusks. The lid opens to reveal a cylindrical ink reservoir. This design is frequently attributed to Mappin and Webb, although no maker’s marks or hallmarks are visible on this example.
Height: 11.5 cm
Base diameter: 10 cm.
Condition report:
The inkwell exhibits surface wear and tarnish consistent with age and use. There is visible rubbing to the silver plate on the raised areas of the textured skin and the base, revealing the base metal beneath. The hinge remains in working order. The interior shows some residue from previous use.
Share this lot:
