THIS ITEM WAS COVERED IN BLACK WHEN I FIRST CAME ACROSSED IT. WE HAVE REMOVED SOME OF THE BLACK TO GET ANY INFORMATION THAT COULD BE SEEN.. IT HAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ITEM A (SYMBOL THAT IS WORN OFF)AND STERLING 1709. THIS WAS ALMOST ILLEGIBLE. THERE IS AN ANGEL AROUND FLOWERS IN THE CENTER OF THIS PIECE AND THERE ARE THINGS THAT STICK UP ON EITHER SIDE.. WE BELIEVE THIS TO BE A QUILL HOLDER FROM THE 17TH CENTURY BUT ARE NOT SURE. ANY INFORMATION IS VERY HELPFUL.