Charles & George Fox Victorian Sterling Silver Ink Stand

This elaborate English Victorian sterling silver ink stand by the London silversmiths Charles & George Fox dates to the mid-1840s. Designed as both a handsome writing accessory and an impressive piece of silver, the stand brings together a pair of inkwells, a central candleholder, and its accompanying snuffer.

The rectangular stand is surrounded by exceptionally intricate pierced silverwork, with scrolling foliate patterns forming an airy, lace-like border around the entire composition. Two inkwells sit symmetrically on either side of the raised central candleholder, their rich blue glass liners providing a striking contrast against the bright silver. The candleholder itself is richly ornamented and accompanied by a conical snuffer, incorporating the practical necessities of writing by candlelight into the overall design.

Raised upon scrolling feet and lavishly decorated throughout, this handsome desk accessory exemplifies the elaborate silverwork of the early Victorian period while preserving the complete ensemble of inkwells, candleholder, and snuffer.

Circa 1845