74 - Italy, late 19th–early 20th century, 5th Lancers Regiment of Novara, desk inkwell that belonged to an officer. Dimensions: height 22 cm – maximum base dimensions 14 x 13 cm

Italy, late 19th–early 20th century, 5th Lancers Regiment of Novara, desk inkwell that belonged to an officer. Dimensions: height 22 cm – maximum base dimensions 14 x 13 cm An elegant and rare inkwell mounted, as was the tradition in the Cavalry, in the hoof of the officer’s horse. The sole of the hoof is set with silver, engraved with the officer’s name, and the upper part, also in silver, features the heraldic coat of arms of the 5th Novara Lancers, with the famous motto “Albis Ardua” engraved at the bottom. The protruding nails served to hold the pens. As a further decorative element, the tip is embossed with the Lancers’ crest.