Silver Ink Wells with a golf motif were popular during the 1890s, which is when this one was likely made.  The design of this ink well, however, is that of a hand-hammered gutty ball from the 1860s-70s. The ball, held up by three clubs formed as a tripod, is beautifully executed.  It still includes its glass liner, used to hold the actual ink so it could be removed and cleaned with great ease.  The ball was made life size.  Other than the wood base, the display appears to use a fair amount of silver in its construction.  It’s not hallmarked, but it’s heavy. 

This lot is in the accompanying group image.