The Heritage of English Knives

 

This is the preeminent reference on antique English knives, written by one of Great Britains most respected 20th century authorities on weaponry. The text contains much previously unknown historical information about cutlers and their art. Chapters and over 300 colour photographs and hand-drawn illustrations cover the earliest history of Sheffield, England, a directory of 19th century cutlers names and many groups and types of knives, from the most humble penknife to magnificent exhibition pieces. The history of the famous American designed Bowie knife, manufactured extensively in Sheffield, is explained and amply illustrated. Discussions present multi-bladed sportsmens pocket knives, farriers, smokers, quill knives, curiosities, and actual knives presented to King George IV in 1821. These appear along with a veritable kaliedoscope of craftsmanship. Quoting from the authors Acknowledgements, "Sheffields legacy is not just in the tangible dust-covered records or faded photographs rescued from destruction, but in the living art form of their craft that endures and remains the symbol of what was the centre of the cutlery world for well over a hundred years."

 

David Hayden-Wright

Hardcover large format 336pp 301 colour + 20 b/w photos

Book Code:  SC1023