Collection of seven gold and gem set pencils and a fob chain

Comprising: seven mechanical pencils variously decorated with ornamentation such as enamel, seed pearls, calibré-cut rubies, guilloché enamel, a wax seal with monogram IG, engraved gold and rose diamonds, and a fob chain, four pencils signed S. Mordan & Co., one signed Hamilton & Co., part illustrated.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece may contain rubies of Burmese origin and therefore may not be able to be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin will be required before import of rubies into the US. Please see our Important Notices and contact the jewellery department for further information. Four pencils signed S. Mordan & Co. Comprising: the one decorated with blue enamel and rose diamonds (inscribed M towards writing tip), the one floral motifs applied in multi coloured enamel, the one which is inset in a case of swirl design (inscribed SA towards writing tip), and the small gold one with a wax seal at one end (with monogram IG/GI), stamped 18Ct below signature, for 18 carat gold (inscribed M towards writing tip). One signed Hamilton & Co. Calcutta with a crown motif, decorated with seed pearls and calibré-cut rubies (inscribed 16 and SA towards writing tip). One thin one decorated with silverish white guilloché enamel. One engraved with a foliate scroll motif (inscribed M towards writing tip). Fob chain stamped with British hallmark for 18 carat gold. All pencils appear to be in working condition, on two the lead needs to be replaced. All with normal signs of wear consistent with age and use. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 148 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Sampson Mordan (1790-1843) was a British silversmith and co-inventor of the first mechanical pencil, patented in 1822. From 1837 to 1843, Mordan manufactured gold and silver pencils and other luxury objects under the name S. Mordan & Co. Upon his death, his sons Sampson Jr. and Augustus inherited the firm which operated until 1941 when, their factory was destroyed in the London Blitz.