Dating to the Victorian era circa 1880 this wonderfully ornate double dip pen and propelling pencil would have been a must-have for and well to do Victorian lady or gentleman.

Designed as a hard to find and highly sought after combination propelling pencil and dip pen - which is a writing instrument used to apply ink to paper. It usually consists of a metal nib with a central slit that acts as a capillary channel like those of fountain pen nibs.

John Mitchell pioneered mass production of steel nib pens in 1822. By the 1850s, Birmingham was a world centre for steel pen and steel nib manufacture. More than half the steel nib pens manufactured in the world were made in Birmingham. Thousands of skilled craftsmen and women were employed in the industry.

This example is crafted in 9ct gold, the head of the pen is in yellow gold, removable to hold pencil inside, and set with a shield-shaped stunning Bloodstone, and interestingly the ornate engraved stem is in a more rosy hued gold, and below the propelling pencil is again in a yellow gold… the two toned combination is unusual and stunning.

Please note there is no lead pencil inside the propelling pencil at the moment.. these can be sourced online or from calligraphy suppliers.

Beautifully engraved throughout with raised highly ornate sliders to slide the pencil and nib-pen, and retaining its original plush blue velvet and leather box, this impeccable implement today can be used by calligraphers and artists… this piece would make a wonderful gift for the aspiring artist in your family.

STONES
Bloodstone 
Approx 1.2cm x 1.1cm

MEASUREMENTS
Extended -  12cm
Closed - 9.5cm
Box - 12.5cm x 4.5cm

ERA
Victorian 1837-1901

WEIGHT
Without box - 19.04 Grams

MARKS
None
Tested as 9ct gold 

CONDITION
Excellent antique condition.  No chips or abrasions to Bloodstone, a vibrant and well flecked piece.  No dents, repairs or wear to any component.  Sliders work perfectly, the nib pen slider is a little stiff, not an issue, pencil slider works effortlessly. No issues to note.  

Box is in very good antique condition, interior is very good with only slight age related fading, still plush and no damages.  Hinges are excellent, clasp closes securely, some age related tarnish to clasp.  Minor marks to underneath and sides of  box, no serious damages.  A simply gorgeous example.