A dolphin inkwell and bell desk set
British, 19th century
an oval mahogany box mounted on a brass base with ball feet, with a single drawer with brass pull, the top decorated with a raised brass bell with striking stick, a cut crystal ink well with a hinged silver lid enclosed within four brass stanchions and railings, a dolphin with hinged brass head to reveal a secret compartment, carved body of oak, and brass tail fins.
19-1/2 x 16 in. (49.5 x 40.6 cm.) height x max-diameter.