Rare World War I Royal Horse Artillery Rha Antique Custom Desk Military Inkwell Inkstand Horseshoe Pen Stand Militaria Collectible

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An exceptional and highly distinctive World War I-era Royal Horse Artillery inkstand, almost certainly created as a bespoke or commemorative … Read more An exceptional and highly distinctive World War I-era Royal Horse Artillery inkstand, almost certainly created as a bespoke or commemorative piece for someone associated with the famed RHA. Combining British military history, trench-era ingenuity, and substantial craftsmanship, this is a remarkable survivor dating to the height of the First World War.

The centerpiece is a dramatic horseshoe-shaped pen rest, crowned with the insignia of the Royal Artillery. At its center sits the inkwell, incorporating two King George V pennies. The obverse portrait of George V is displayed prominently on the front, while the reverse of a 1917 penny appears on the back—providing an evocative wartime date for the piece. A substantial applied “RHA” plaque adorns the front of the wooden base. The upper platform, horseshoe, inkwell, insignia, and fittings are fashioned from remarkably thick metal with a rich gold-colored wash, giving the stand an impressive presence and considerable weight. The metalwork is mounted upon a handsome dark wood base.

The individual construction and unusual combination of military insignia, horseshoe imagery, contemporary coinage, and hand-assembled components strongly suggest that this was a privately commissioned or soldier-made commemorative piece rather than a standard commercial inkstand. Whether created during the war or shortly thereafter, it would have served as both a functional desk accessory and a deeply personal reminder of regimental service.

Measures 9.25 inches wide, 5.75 inches deep and 6.5 inches high. Weighs approximately 3 pounds. Pens shown in photos are not included and are for demonstration only. Good antique condition with signs of wear and use. Untouched surfaces, wear to the patina with color variation. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

The Royal Horse Artillery traces its origins to 1793 and was created to provide highly mobile artillery capable of operating alongside cavalry. During the First World War, RHA batteries served extensively with British cavalry and other formations. The horseshoe form of this inkstand is therefore especially appropriate, reflecting the historic relationship between the regiment, its horses, and mobile artillery.

A superb piece of British militaria and WWI history, with wonderful character and an unmistakably masculine officer’s-desk presence. Its substantial construction, 1917 coin detail, RHA insignia, and likely one-of-a-kind nature make it an especially compelling piece for a collector of military history, regimental artifacts, antique writing accessories, or English country furnishings. See less