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 SMP Silver Salon Forums
 A Curator's Viewpoint
 Theodore B Starr Crystal & Silver Engraved Inkwell
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| Author | Topic: Theodore B Starr Crystal & Silver Engraved Inkwell |
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Erin Posts: 3 |
posted 05-16-2000 10:03 PM
  
Thank you in advance for any information that you may have regarding this piece. I am inquiring about a solid crystal inkwell that has a floral engraved flip-up top with the title stamped around the collar: "Theodore B. Starr" and a makers mark in the shape of an oval with a flying dove(Or bird) in the center with olive branches on either side and a "D" on the top center. The inkwell was in the Harry S. Houghton family of San Francisco originally and I believe it was crafted in the late 1880's. It is monogramed on the top. The crystal itself has a swirl design and is very heavy, about six pounds. It is five inches in height and five inches across the base. The inkwell is in beautiful condition and the floral pattern on the top is exquisite. I have been able to find only a few references to Theodore B. Starr and am not familar with the makers mark. Can you shed any light on this piece?? Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Merci, Erin Dunleavy IP: Logged |
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Scott Martin Forum Master Posts: 11520 |
posted 05-16-2000 10:44 PM
 If the mark looks like the above then the maker was William B. Durgin. 1853-1898 William B. Durgin IP: Logged |
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Erin Posts: 3 |
posted 05-16-2000 11:15 PM
Scott, Thank you for the quick response to my question. The Makers Mark on the inkwell is identical to the one that you posted. This information will aid immensely in my research on this piece. I mearly have to narrow down the time period in which it was made. Thanks again and if there is anyone amoung you that has information regarding the Theodore B Starr company, I will be eternally greatful for assistance in this area also. Thanks again Erin IP: Logged |
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Ulysses Dietz Moderator Posts: 1265 |
posted 05-17-2000 09:30 AM
Rainwater list's THeodore B. Starr as ca. 1900-1924, but I'd push it back a decade into the 19th century. Starr was a big jeweler and retailer in Manhattan, a real rival of Tiffany's. Is your inkwell rock crystal, unlikely, or carved lead glass (crystal), more likely. Either is possible, but rock crystal would make it much rarer. IP: Logged |
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Scott Martin Forum Master Posts: 11520 |
posted 05-17-2000 10:24 AM
See the post about Theodore B. Starr posted on 11-02-1999 12:17 PM in the Silver Ephemera & Documentation Silver Salon Forum: IP: Logged |
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Erin Posts: 3 |
posted 05-17-2000 11:26 AM
Ulysses and Scott, Merci, for the enlightening information. It appears that the inkwell is carved lead crystal, judging from the small number of minute air bubbles which can be seen in the glass upon close scrutiny. I believe that this inkwell is circa the mid to late 1800's as this was when the Houghton Family was most prominent in San Francisco. I know that they travled between the East (NY) and West quite frequently. It might possibly be older if it was made for the Grandfather. The Monogram on the top of the lid is very ornate and it is difficult to make out the lettering, I belive they are Frederick Houghton's initials, but I need to clean the tarnish in order to be sure. I will not attempt any restoration at this point as I am not qualified in this area. If you have any further input, all efforts are appreciated. I will be offering this at auction eventually and am preparing to contact Butterfields in SF for an official apprasial. I have quite a few items from this family, so I am sure that the appraisers will be interested. Thanks again,You are too kind. Erin IP: Logged |
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