VINTAGE 20thC ENGLISH SOLID SILVER PORT & STARBOARD SHIP LANTERN INKWELLS c.1934

£1,795.00

A pair of 20th Century English solid silver inkwells modelled as a ship’s port and starboard oil lamp lanterns. Each lantern features a curved coloured glass insert, one red and one green, mounted within the body.

The hinged lids are fitted with swing handles and open to reveal the concealed inkwells within. Hallmarked English Silver (925 Standard), London, year 1934, Maker's Mark H.B.S. (Herbert Simpson Benzie).

Reference Number: J12078

A pair of 20th Century English solid silver inkwells modelled as a ship’s port and starboard oil lamp lanterns. Each lantern features a curved coloured glass insert, one red and one green, mounted within the body.

The hinged lids are fitted with swing handles and open to reveal the concealed inkwells within. Hallmarked English Silver (925 Standard), London, year 1934, Maker's Mark H.B.S. (Herbert Simpson Benzie).

Reference Number: J12078

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Herbert Simpson Benzie (1872–1952) was a 20th Century silversmith and jeweller of Cowes, Isle of Wight, who continued the renowned Benzie family business founded by his father, Simpson Benzie, in 1862. Based in Cowes High Street, Benzie became especially associated with the yachting world, producing fine silver trophies, nautical presentation pieces, enamelled club pennants, and jewellery for Britain’s sailing elite.

His maker’s marks were registered in London and Chester in the early 1900s, confirming his standing as an active silversmith rather than only a retailer. Under Herbert’s direction, Benzie of Cowes strengthened its reputation as the “yachtsman’s jeweller,” closely linked with the fashionable regatta culture of Cowes and the Royal Yacht Squadron.

CONDITION

In Good Condition. Wear in keeping with age. One glass liner missing - Please refer to photos.

SIZE

Height: 8.9 cm // 3.50 inches
Width: 5.9 cm // 2.32 inches
Depth: 5.6 cm // 2.20 inches

Total Weight: 260 grams