Large Victorian Silver & Enamel Draughtsman's Writing Compendium & Ruler

A fine quality large late Victorian silver and enamel double-ended Draughtsman's Writing Compendium and 6 inch Ruler. The cylindrical body with hammered finish and enamelled imperial ruler. The red enamelled end unscrewing to reveal a gilded compartment housing a fluted silver plated tube containing spare leads and nibs. The blue enamelled end with push fit terminal set with a hard or pumice stone and with a second pull-off cover revealing four writing implements, each with a different shaped terminal. The items include a silver Dip Pen with a contemporary gold nib, a silver Propelling Pencil with a 'V.S' (1.5mm) size lead and a screw-off terminal to a lead reservoir holding three spare long leads, a Paper Slitter with a silver blade and a Quill Knife with a steel blade.

Engraved with the retailer's name of Alfred Clark, 20 Old Bond Street, London, c1890.

* Historically, and in traditional calligraphy today, pumice stone or pumice powder is a key material for preparing writing surfaces: Smoothing Parchment/Vellum: Scribes and calligraphers used pumice stone to abrade the surface of parchment or vellum (treated animal skin), removing grease and raising a slight "nap" or key. This process, sometimes followed by applying a powder like sandarac, creates a velvety surface that prevents ink from running into the fibers, ensuring clean, sharp lines.

Reserved - £950.00