Summary: This stunning antique ink tray and well(s) is a true piece of history, crafted in Birmingham in 1891 by renowned silversmith John Millward Bank. This was engraved in 1903 with: "R.C.A - 1903", likely by the manufacturer, retailer, or original owner. Made from pure sterling silver, this ink tray (and wells) is not only a beautiful addition to any collection, but also a functional and practical piece for use in your home or office. The intricate details and craftsmanship are a testament to the skilled artisans of the past, and this tray is sure to be a conversation starter. Whether you're a collector or simply appreciate the beauty and history of fine silver, this piece is not to be missed.
Condition: The ink tray features no structural damage, however indents are present on the inkwells. Beyond the indent on the inkwells, there are little-no scratches, and this antique requires only a re-polish to restore to proper shine. The repoussé and chasings on the inkwell and tray are extremely detailed and remain visible. In great condition, fully functional wells and slots. Pegs are not loose and firmly secure.
Dimensions: L: 4.6 in W: 4.5 in H: 2.65 in - 144 Grams
History: Looking at the hallmarks present on the silver tray and inkwells, all date to Birmingham in 1893 with the J.M.B hallmark stamp. Interestingly, the J.M.B hallmark stamp is present over another upon the inkwells, but not the tray. Looking upon the engraving on the ink tray, the initials ``R.C.A.?" and "1903" are present, despite the hallmarks dating to 1893. The engraving could have been by the retailer/wholesaler, while the hallmarks by and during the manufacturer. The original owner could have also had the engraving custom done through some outlet. In other words, the antiques creation dates to 1893 by John Millward Banks from Birmingham, where the engravings indicate either a long shelf time (of 10 years) with an unknown wholesaler/retailer, or a custom engraving job by the original owner upon that date. In either case, the antique dates range from 1893-1903, however in terms of the hallmarks, should date to 1893.
John Millward Banks is a silversmith whose company dates to 1863 (ref. 1,2,3). John's operations location is 6, Northampton Street, Birmingham, where his advertisements point to for the purchase and ordering of his goods(ref. 3). John also has a showroom at 12-14 Beake Street, London (west end) which was functioning throughout the period of 1893 to 1905 (ref. 1). The agent of the London showroom is T. J. Banks, a brother of John Millward Banks which is noted in 1892 (ref. 3). According to a 1917 Birmingham advertisement (ref. 3), either John's "forget me not" trademark registers to 1825, or that his company registers to 1825 (despite various sources pointing to the formation of the company in 1863). The Chester 1898 hallmark present in ref. 2 features the "forget me not" flower hallmark. In the advertisement, John's company manufacturers jewelry (brooches, neck-lets, ear-rings, pendants, and real colored stones mounted with pearls in 15ct and 9ct gold - a specialty of the company), sterling silvers (with an emphasis for smoking goods in gold and silver, through plain, engine-turned, and enameled processes), and offers repairs which "receive immediate and prompt attention" (ref. 3). Another advertisement exists in the Jeweler and Metalworker Annual under the 1st of October, 1899 (match boxes), which is obtainable through ref. 4. The companies name formats as "J. Millward Banks & Co."(ref. 3) or "J.M. Banks & Co." (ref.2) by around 1900. John dies on the 1st of February in 1911, but the business continues through his son Francis M. Banks up to the date of 1925-1926 where the company liquidates. Marks for John Millward Banks are present in the Sheffild, Chester, London (1891, & 1903 (ref. 6)) and Birmingham(May, 1902 (ref.5)) registereies. Not a lot of information is present about J.M.B and son, and access to details (advertisements and assay offices), are often behind dollar amounts or credentials out of reach, though we shall see. We also need to take into account that silversmiths of England would commonly hallmark the wholesaler on behalf of their clients (ref. 5).
Uniqueness: This sterling silver ink tray and well, while with structural damage present on the wells, is nearly scratchless, and is unique to the market as far as I can find. With a proper polishing, this sterling silver antique will look new again, and is functional. Inkwells are removable, and the caps are securable. Three hallmarks are present, one on the ink tray, and two on each inkwell, with the hallmarks on the wells being stamped over a previous marking.
Important: Offering free shipping, a 30-day return period, and open to negotiations on matters of price. Please reach out to me if you're interested in receiving more information or photos of the antique. Shipments will be sent out upon payments. Measurements can be rough and of human error, if you'd like a re-measurement for clarity purposes please message me. IMPORTANT: Please make sure the right address is sent to me, I will verify this in an email before I ship to you.
References:
1. https://emuseum.mfah.org/people/47947/john-millward-banks
2. https://www.silvercollection.it/englishsilvermarksXJDUE3.html
3. https://www.925-1000.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=23181
4. https://www.rmg.co.uk/collections/library/rmgl-147278
5. https://www.ascasonline.org/articoloAGOS100.html
6. https://www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk/Makers/London-JL-JP.html