Inkstand Maker: George Christian Gebelein (American, 1878–1945)
After: Philip Syng, Jr. (American, 1703–1789)
Retailer: Gebelein Silversmiths (American, founded 1909)

1928–29

American Decorative Arts

On view, 3rd floor, Modern and Contemporary Art and Design

This is a replica of the inkstand made by Philip Syng, Jr., in 1752 and used by the signers of the Declaration of Independence. It is one of thirty such replicas that Francis P. Garvan commissioned from the Boston silversmith George Christian Gebelein. Intended as gifts for close friends and fellow members of the Chemical Foundation, the inkstands were symbolically potent objects that reflected Garvan’s interest in early Americana.

Medium

Silver

Dimensions

1 1/4 × 10 13/16 in. (3.2 × 27.4 cm)
with tray: 7 1/4 × 7 15/16 in. (18.4 × 20.2 cm)
Quill holder: 18 1/8 × 5 1/8 in. (46 × 13 cm)
Ink holder and sand shaker: 2 7/16 × 1 9/16 in. (6.2 × 3.9 cm)

Credit Line

Gift of Mrs. Edwina Mead Gagge

Accession Number

1976.19a-d

Geography

Made in Boston, Massachusetts

Culture

American

Period

20th century

Classification

Containers

Disclaimer

Note: This electronic record was created from historic documentation that does not necessarily reflect the Yale University Art Gallery’s complete or current knowledge about the object. Review and updating of records is ongoing.

Bibliography
  • Barbara M. Ward and Gerald W. R. Ward, eds., Silver in American Life: Selections from the Mabel Brady Garvan and Other Collections at Yale University, exh. cat. (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Art Gallery, 1979), 45, 85, 101, no. 76, ill
  • "Acquisitions 1976," Yale University Art Gallery Bulletin 36, no. 3 (Fall 1977), 56
Object copyright
No Copyright - United States
Additional information

Marks

Stamped "Gebelein" and "Boston" on bottom of tray. \r\nInk Holder: stamped "Gebelein" on bottom\r\nSand Shaker: stamped "Gebelein" on bottom

Inscriptions

Bottom engraved: "The original of this inkstand was made by Philip Syng (1703-1789). It was used by all in the signing of the Declaration of Independence & now rests in Independence Hall. It is here reproduced in the old manner by George C. Gebelein (1878-19 ). Presented to Larkin G. Mead by Francis P. Garvan. Commemorating our fight for American Chemical Independence."\r\n\r\n

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