American Revolution
c. 1775-1820, Naval Writing Inkwell with Wooden Case
c. 1775-1820, Original Naval Writing Inkwell with Wooden Case, Choice Very Fine.
A neat piece of Naval history this Naval Ink Pot Holder and Custom Wooden Case which measures 8” x 4.25” x 2.25” high. The case bears an fouled anchor motif on the lid at the center, which appears to be brass. The lid lifts on two tiny hinges to reveal three ink pots stored within. The pots are white porcelain and are in good shape for being over two hundred years old. There is one small nick to the edge of one of the pots but this does not detract from the appearance and it is still useable

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The front of the case has a small curved lip that would have held the writing instrument. The piece in which the pots sit can be removed. There is staining from the ink and it is obvious this piece was well used. Ink pot cases like this would have been used by minor naval officers, literate merchantman officers or literate sailors. This would have been used to prepare reports, record navigation and correspond with home.

Examples like this are hard to find intact and disappeared when they were no longer useful. If only we knew the many things written from this inkwell! Here is a chance to own a real piece of history from the famed sailing vessels. The piece shows signs of past boring worms and has ink staining commensurate with use. The pots are intact and have not been cleaned. The wood is worn and shows shrinkage caused by age. The hinges are intact and the lid closes. The first we have offered.