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Silver-Gilt Inkwell Presented by Queen Victoria to Sir John Kirkland
- This stunning silver-gilt inkwell holds a fascinating royal provenance
- The inkwell was gifted by Queen Victoria to Sir John Kirkland, a closest confidante
- It was crafted by Edward Barnard & Sons, the esteemed London-based silversmiths to the Crown
- Created in 1841, this exquisite inkwell is a prime example of exceptional royal craftsmanship
- Get complete item description here
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Edward Barnard & Sons
Hallmarked London, 1841
This stunning silver-gilt inkwell holds a fascinating royal provenance, having been gifted by Queen Victoria to Sir John Kirkland, her closest confidante during the Crimean War. A cherished possession throughout his life, Sir John regarded this royal inkwell as one of his most valued treasures.
Crafted by Edward Barnard & Sons, the esteemed London-based silversmiths to the Crown since 1680, the inkwell showcases the. . .
Edward Barnard & Sons
Hallmarked London, 1841
This stunning silver-gilt inkwell holds a fascinating royal provenance, having been gifted by Queen Victoria to Sir John Kirkland, her closest confidante during the Crimean War. A cherished possession throughout his life, Sir John regarded this royal inkwell as one of his most valued treasures.
Crafted by Edward Barnard & Sons, the esteemed London-based silversmiths to the Crown since 1680, the inkwell showcases the superior quality and craftsmanship for which the firm was renowned. Throughout their illustrious history, Edward Barnard & Sons was a favored choice among the most distinguished clientele, including the royal family. Their works are displayed in prestigious collections such as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
The double inkwell is crafted in an exuberant Rococo style, featuring two cut glass ink containers resting on a bed of lush acanthus leaves. The inscribed plaque, wreathed in olive and oak branches and topped with a royal crown, bears the inscription: “The Gracious Gift of Her Majesty Queen Victoria to Sir John Kirkland 19. February. 1853.” Created in 1841, this exquisite inkwell is a prime example of the exceptional and prestigious items produced by Barnard & Sons for British royalty and their inner circle.
14” wide by 12 1/2” deep by 6” high
Provenance:
The Collection of Sir John Kirkland, London
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
M.S. Rau, New Orleans

| Maker: | Bernard & Sons, Edward |
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | England |
| Type: | Inkstands |
| Style: | Victorian |
| Depth: | 12.5 in. (31.75 cm) |
| Width: | 14.0 in. (35.56 cm) |
| Height: | 6.0 in. (15.24 cm) |
The Royal Treatment: Rare Finds from Palaces Around the World
Read MoreBuy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists