Burnell and Rowe

Description

Here we have a superb quality large Victorian Bronze Inkstand with two Glass Inkwells. The stand is oblong with two rope decorated handles and a pierced foliate border. The hinged lids of the inkwells and the central compartment have snake handles. The glass inkwells have a swirling patern on each side and star cut bases. The central compartment probably originally held a moistened sponge for cleaning pen nibs or wetting stamps.

The inkstand was made in Birmingham by Townshend & Co as part of their Acanthus range of art metalware and dates to the 1890s. The company was founded in the early 1880s as Townshend & Thompson becoming Townshend & Co around 1890. They also used the name Townshend Art Metal Co and the trademark Acanthus. They produced many fine quality decorative pieces in copper, brass and bronze that were sold through high end retailers. After WW1 they focused primarily on industrial components and shop displays.

Condition is very good with no damage to the bronze stand which has developed a gorgeous dark red patina. One glass inkwell has a slight bruise to the underside of one corner but this is not visible when in use. The hinges on the lids are all in good working order. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

The inkstand is of a substantial size measuring 37.5cm / 14.75ins long, 18.9cm / 7.4ins wide and 13.5cm / 5.3ins high. It weighs in at a hefty 4.33kg / 152.6oz.

The underside of the base has the Acanthus trademark, the Townshend & Co stamp and a registered design number of 256554, which dates the design to 1895.

Shipping in the UK is £26.00 by Royal Mail Special Delivery, which covers the weight and value of the inkstand.
Overseas customers, please ask us about shipping costs to your country before making a purchase.