A George V sterling silver treasury inkstand, London 1924 by William Comyns & Sons (Charles and Richard Comyns)

Of conventional form, rectangular form with moulded edges raised on four bun feet with hinged C scroll and knop handles. The top with a piano hinge to reveal a three-lid compartment to one side and one to the other. Fitted with two clear glass and silver collared ink wells. All fully and part-marked.

Length – 31 cm / 12.25 inches

Weighable silver weight – 3179 grams / 102.21 ozt

Treasury inkstands were first commissioned by the Lord Chamberlain on 13th May 1686 for use in the Treasury and the Privy Council.

For the same model also by Comyns of 1929, sold Bonham’s, Knightsbridge, 28 Jan 2014, Lot 18 (£4,000, incl. premium)

Another by Comyns of 1930, sold Christie’s Cowdray Park, 13-15 Sep 2011, Lot 185 (£2,500 incl. premium)

Another of 1922, sold Bonham’s New Bond Street, 19 Nov 2008, Lot 157 (£1,440 incl. premium)