Art Nouveau Pocket Watch Inkwell by John Grinsell & Sons

Description

An Art Nouveau sterling silver pocket watch inkwell dating to 1912. The square glass inkwell is cut with a diamond quilt pattern and mounted with a hinged sterling silver lid hallmarked for John Grinsell & Sons, Birmingham. The lid incorporates a fitted compartment to house a pocket watch, allowing it to be displayed upright when opened for use as a desk timepiece.

The removable pocket watch has a silver case engraved with floral decoration and a white enamel dial with black Roman numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial and gold enamel dot minute markers. The inner cover is stamped 935, indicating continental silver, most likely of Swiss origin, and is engraved “Remembrance of Arthur 1904.” As the inscription predates the 1912 inkwell, it is likely the pocket watch was already owned before being paired with the inkwell. The pocket watch can be removed for carrying and returned to the inkwell for display when not in use.

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Measurements

5.5cm All Round (2.17 Inches)

Who was John Grinsell & Sons?

John Grinsell & Sons were Birmingham silversmiths specialising in high quality silver mounted glass, stoneware and ceramic wares during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. Trading under the family name from 1871, the firm became particularly well known for its finely made domestic silverwares and established showrooms in Birmingham, London and Glasgow.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on John Grinsell & Sons.

What is Sterling Silver?

is an alloy composed by weight of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum millesimal fineness (parts per thousand) of 925.

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