Inkwell

item details

NameInkwell

ProductionCarl Ludwig; silversmith; circa 1885; Wellington

Classificationinkwells, ceramics

Materialssilver, ceramic, wood, hoof

DimensionsOverall: 120mm (width), 100mm (height), 110mm (length)

Registration NumberGH004529

Overview

The use of animal parts combined with precious metals, such as beaks and tusks in jewellery, was fashionable in Victorian times. This inkwell, made by the Wellington silversmith Carl Ludwig in 1885, is an unusual example of this taste.

Danebury, by a hoof
The hoof belonged to a well-known racehorse named Danebury, and the inkwell was commissioned by the horse's owner, Mr W O Williams of Greytown, to commemorate his favourite horse's many racing victories.

Danebury's successful career is recorded in an elaborate inscription on the inkwell: 'Danebury. By Traducer. Dam Ada. Foaled 1875. Died 1885. Presented by W.O. Williams, Esq. Won a large number of Races in all parts on N.Z. Won Canterbury Champagne Stakes Railway Plate Twice and Christchurch Plate Free and Metropolitan Handicap. Auckland Derby. Ashburton Cup Waitaki County Plate. J. C. Handicap Cup Champagne Stakes. Wairarapa Stakes Lyell's Bay Cup. Geraldine Cup 2 miles time 3.39'.