Inkstand

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Bottom of the silver inkstand, showing the embossed stamp of “J Leonard.”

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Close-up of one leg of the silver inkstand, showing a snake wrapped around fasces, or wooden reeds

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Close-up of a side of the silver inkstand, showing an eagle with decorative swags

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Date

ca. 1815

Maker

Jacob Leonard

Dimensions

4 x 10 5/8 x 7 in. (10.2 x 27 x 17.8 cm)

Accession Number

2004.107.000a-d

Credit Line

Collection of the U.S. House of Representatives

Object Details

Before the Speaker calls each session of the House to order, this coin-silver inkstand is placed on the rostrum. The inkstand is considered the oldest surviving artifact of the House and was made between 1810 and 1820. Although its origins are mysterious, it most likely came into the House around 1819. The inkstand is stamped with the mark of J. Leonard, a Washington silversmith and watchmaker. It contains three replacement crystal inkwells and is adorned on both sides by swags and eagles. The feet of the tray take the form of fasces with snakes winding around them, classical symbols of unity and wisdom, respectively.

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