Rare antique box of steel dip pens from the Birmingham-based firm A. Sommerville & Co., marketed under the name Fabrique Anglo-Américaine with a Paris depot. Its pale blue, black, and gold label features an ornate scrollwork border, medallions depicting Napoleon III and the British royal couple, and the inscription “Hors concours Exposition 1867.” Still full and sealed with its original brand label, this small box is a fine example of antique stationery packaging, combining advertising typography with industrial awards.
✦ Period: late 19th century ✦ Origin: England, A. Sommerville & Co., Birmingham ✦ Dimensions: approx. 6 × 4 × 2 cm. ✦ Material: paper-covered cardboard ✦ Condition: box full, still sealed. Labels clearly legible, with slight soiling and small stains, rubbing along the edges, and wear at the corners. The contents and condition of the pens have not been checked due to the seal.
An antique box of pens for a collection of calligraphy, school supplies, and 19th-century desk objects.
