Lovely 19th-Century Townshend & Co. Brass & Porcelain Inkwell – Blue & White Blossom Motif, Crafted in England

Lovely 19th-Century Townshend & Co. Brass & Porcelain Inkwell – Blue & White Blossom Motif

This exquisite 19th-century inkwell, crafted by Townshend & Co. of London, is a remarkable fusion of English brasswork and delicately painted porcelain. The base features an ornate openwork design in solid brass, resting on scrolled feet with fine neoclassical detailing. At its center, a hand-painted cobalt blue and white porcelain ink reservoir blooms with a flowering branch motif, topped by a finely turned brass lid.

About Townshend & Co.:

Townshend & Co. was a prominent late-19th-century English manufacturer specializing in fine writing instruments, desk sets, and luxury stationery accessories. Known for marrying function with artistic elegance, the firm produced pieces for discerning clients in Britain and abroad. Their inkwells were particularly prized in the Victorian era, often gracing the desks of scholars, barristers, and gentlemen of letters. Today, Townshend & Co. pieces are sought after by collectors for their refined craftsmanship and rarity, as the company’s production ceased by the early 20th century.

Details:

• Maker: Townshend & Co., London- Marked appropriately 
• Date: Late 19th century
• Materials: Brass & hand-painted porcelain
• Design: Pierced brass base with neoclassical scroll feet; cobalt blue porcelain sphere painted with white blossoms
• Dimensions: 4.5” tall x 6.5” wide at the base
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with warm patina; porcelain free of chips or cracks; hinge functions smoothly
• Origin: England

A piece of both writing history and decorative art, this inkwell is perfect for collectors of Victorian desk accessories, blue-and-white porcelain enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add an element of refined heritage to their home or office.

Pieces like this are why I love Sourcing the South and the great state of Texas for heirloom estate decor…shopping estate sales, online auctions, charity thrift stores, and antique malls to carefully curate a collection of fantastic vintage and antique finds that have and will stand the test of time.

The prices on Townshend & Co on Chairish are in the well over $1k

$322 INCLUDES SHIPPING n the continental US.                                                          

🩷Vintage and antique items have some wear associated with years of age and use, adding to their overall charm. Please see all the pictures, which are considered part of the description.

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