An Australian silver-mounted hardwood three bottle inkstand, the silver with the marks of Jacob Josephson of Sydney, 'one of the first silversmiths to work in Australia' (J.B. Hawkins), circa 1818

possibly blackbutt wood, single detachable drawer with unmarked small silver drop handle, beaded borders, central swing handle, three cut-glass bottles with detachable silver covers, one pierced and engraved, the others engraved with the initials 'TP'

Some natural wear to tops of the beaded borders which are silver-plated lead beads in the manner of Sheffield Plate; cover of one inkwell has lead solder at rim where intilled plate has been attached; two glass inkwells with small chips to rims; small dents to sander cover; two corners of wood stand opening at seam join; a few ink stains on wood and minor scuffs; good marks, overall very nice colour, interesting and rare.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The swing handle and the detachable bottle covers of this inkstand are all struck with the maker's mark JJ together with two other pseudo marks. These have been identified as those of the Sydney retailer Jacob Josephson. For illustrations of further pieces bearing these marks and information about Josephson, a Prussian national (b. 1774) who was convicted for forgery in England before being transported to Australia in 1819, see J.B. Hawkins, Nineteenth Century Australian Silver, Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge, 1990, vol. I, pp. 39-45.