Victorian Naturalistic Silver Gilt Inkstand, Apple, Pear and Pomegranate

An exceptionally fine quality Victorian naturalistic silver gilt inkstand, modelled as an apple, pear and pomegranate on a vine leaf base, with central crabstock taper stick with pen rest and detachable snuffer and sconce. The pomegranate with pull-off cover housing a glass inkwell, the pear formed as a bell with clapper and the the apple as a quill box. The triform leaf base with conjoined twig handle and three twig feet. Wing nuts to secure each element to the base.

Each piece fully or partially hallmarked in multiple locations, by Robert Hennell III, London 1857.

Retaining virtually all of the original thick mercury fire gilding.

A similar example in plain silver is in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Sold - £5,250.00