A Dutch parcel-gilt silver prize quill, Jan Aernout Bros, Amsterdam, 1754

applied with the arms of the town of Amsterdam in silver-gilt and date 1755, numbered 6

Acquired in 1996.

some splits to feather and minor losses to silver. Clear hallmarks, pen knib split and bent. good colour.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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 any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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."

Such pens were awarded to students at the Latin School in Amsterdam, as a prize for good results achieved in penmanship. The award of this prize took place twice a year, at Easter and in the autumn, during the promotion of pupils to a higher class. In a parchment-bound list entitled Names of the Disciples (Zedert Ao: 1684. J: Blas Scriba) are all recipients of the silver prize pens in that period, recorded from 1684 to 1758 (GAA, archiefnr 260, Records of the Rector of the Latin School, No. 31.).
In 1755, three students of class two (actually fifth grade) are mentioned to have received the pen: Gerardus Kulenkamp, Lambertus Nieuwenhuijs and Cornelius Brewing. For another example, numbered 2, see Jan Rudolph de Lorm, Amsterdams Goud en Zilver, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, 1999, cat. 64.