An Edwardian novelty silver Inkwell and stamp box in the form of an automobile.

A rare Edwardian silver Inkwell and Stamp Box in the form of an automobile - a De Dion-Bouton type Q - London 1903, by Alfred Clark. The seat hinges to release the ink reservoir, one seat slides forward to allow a pen to be dipped; the rear compartment with gilt interior. The detachable headlamps have glass lenses. \nA silver combined cigar box and table lighter in the form of a motor car, of the same period as this inkwell, but lacking a date letter, was sold at Sotheby's Belgravia 27/07/1978, lot 333 and is engraved with the retailer's name 'Clark, 33, New Bond St.' and marked in London by Hukin and Heath with a pattern number 18477. \n \nThe ink reservoir, which lifts out, from the body of the car is unmarked. Condition: \n

Good overall. Some fire stain [discolouration of the surface] on the sliding seats, some remnants of lacquer.

Height - 7.320 cm.; Length - 12.90 cm.; Width - 6.70 cm.; Weight - 438.90 gms.