This exceptional antique sterling silver gilt inkstand has a reCtangular, cut cornered form.

The cast silver gilt George V inkstand is embellished with four mythological creatures*, each with a scaled body and the lower portion of a fish, in addition to an open jawed dragon style head and clawed legs.

The ornamentation to the body includes two vacant circular cartouches in addition to two pellet designs, segmenting the creatures.

The stand is further ornamented with an undulating leaf textured border to the rim,

The surface of this exceptional example of antique silverware incorporates two applied C shaped supports, composing a pen stand.

This antique hallmarked silver inkstand is supported by four impressive cast feet accented with large scrolling terminals and tri-lobed sockets.

The stand incorporates a central circular receiver which accommodates the original nephrite ink pot.

This exceptional carved nephrite inkpot is fitted with a hallmarked sterling silver gilt lining and incorporates two handpieces modelled in the form of mythical creatures grasping the aforementioned liner rim.

The inkpot retains the original hallmarked push fit cover surmounted with an exceptional rose quartz finial realistically modelled in the form of a squirrel.

This exceptional and unusual ink pot is fitted with a removable glass liner.

This antique inkstand retains the original gilding and is supplied with two independent diamond and gemstone grading report cards.

The inkstand is an unusual example, pieces such as this are rare to the market.

* These creatures share similarities to a "Skolopendra" - a giant sea monster said to be the size of a Greek trireme / ship. It has a fish-like tail, numerous legs along its body and extremely long hairs that protrude from its nostrils; all these features help the creature move swiftly in water. In Greek mythology Skolopendra is the child of Phorcys (primordial sea god) and Keto (sea goddess); she is most notable for bearing multiple monstrous children.

This antique inkstand is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

The cast decoration is all very sharp

Full hallmarks struck to the surface of the inkstand, in addition to the part hallmarks to the container and cover, are all very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this example of antique silverware.

Length 17.3cm/6.8"

Width 12.9cm/5.1"

Height 10.5cm/4.1"

Height of inkpot 8.3cm/3.3"

Height of inkpot to rim 4.2cm/1.7"

Length across inkpot handles 9.9cm/3.9"

Diameter of inkpot 6.4cm/2.5"

9.3 troy ounces/289g (excluding inkpot)

Date: 1926

Origin: London, England

Maker: S. Blanckensee & Sons Ltd.