United States House of Representatives: History, Art, & Archives
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Inkstand

Inkstand/tiles/collection/6/668.xml
Inkstand/tiles/collection/6/669.xml
Inkstand/tiles/collection/6/670.xml
Inkstand/tiles/collection/6/671.xml
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Date

1812-1821

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.

Rights and Reproduction Information

Objects

John Dennis Hastert
John Dennis Hastert

Exhibitions & Publications

What's in the House Chamber?
What's in the House Chamber?
Office of the Historian: history@mail.house.gov
Office of Art & Archives, Office of the Clerk: art@mail.house.gov, archives@mail.house.gov