Leake's blotter containing reverse images of his signature.
[Blotting paper, dating back to the 15th century was used in the days of dip pens or fountain pens to absorb excess ink. It was a common sight on a gentleman's desk, often in a leather or similar frame. A sheet of blotting paper was also an essential piece of school stationery to prevent smudging up until the advent of the ballpoint pen. Note added by MR]