An exceptional Cymric silver inkwell by Archibald Knox for Liberty & Co

Price: PoA

A remarkable inkwell by Archibald Knox for Liberty & Co, previously only known by its Liberty Sketch book drawing model number 5105, page 287.

In terms of scale, design, and gauge this is one of Knox’s more exceptional Liberty pieces.  This double inkwell is large at 24 cm long and, unusually for Liberty silver of this date, a very heavy gauge of silver, weighing in at over 26 oz. The design is a wonderful mix of Knox’s Celtic revival and radical modernism.  The overall shape of the inkwell is geometric with stepped lids that open like wings.  The sides and top all enhanced with classic Knox entrelac in blue green enamel.

The inkwell is in very good and original condition.  There are just two very small shallow surface chips to two enamels (really not noticeable) and the inkwell lid hinges show some distortion and have probably been repaired over time. The inkwell retains, in excellent condition, its original Ruskin liners.  These are also rare, glazed with an early and rarely seen “Indian brown” glaze and using tocky (brown) clay that the factory ceased to use after c 1902.

The inkwell is fully hallmarked and part marked for Birmingham 1902.  This inkwell will  appear in Dr Stephen Martin’s forthcoming revised third edition of his book “Archibald  Knox”.

Maker:  Liberty & Co

Designer:  Archibald Knox

Date: 1902

Marks: L & Co, Birmingham, “c”

Material: Sterling silver, enamel

Condition: Very good. See description.

Size: 24 cm long, 11 cm wide, 4 cm high (lids closed)

Weight: 742 grams, 26.2 oz