A German silver-gilt inkstand, August Witte, Aachen, circa 1900

Two Gothic towers forming the inkwells flanking a shrine for the nibs and other writing implements, fronted by a plaquette of the Prodigal Son and initialled O and S C, on monster supports

Light wear, clear marks, good overall condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes 's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Auguste Witte (1840-1883) who founded the firm Auguste Witte Gmbh, was a contemporary of Rheinold Vasters. Like Vasters he worked and was supported by the church equally gaining an important reputation for ablility to reproduce the styles of earlier t.mes s. He died at the early of age of 43 from inhalation of Mercury which was then used in the gilding process. The firm, under the direction of his son Bernhard was awarded the title Goldsmith of the Holy See and the Papal Palaces by Pope Leo XIII in 1895. This is reflected in the papal crown and keys of St Peter mark on the base of the inkstand.