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Embrodiery Scissors

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SKU: 9/1018 Category: Tag:

This pair of embroidery scissors is a fine example of traditional craftsmanship, encapsulating a period when such tools were both functional and decorative. The scissors feature intricately designed silver handles, hinting at its likely Dutch origin. The blades are well-preserved and are housed within a matching sheath, which also bears a hallmark indicative of its silver composition. The hallmark suggests the scissors were crafted in the Netherlands, a country renowned for its silverware. These scissors likely date back to the late 19th or early 20th century, a time when embroidery was a popular pastime, and such elegant tools were in demand.

Condition Report

These embroidery scissors exhibit wear consistent with their age and historical use. The silver handles have developed a patina that is typical for antique silver, adding to their authenticity and charm. The hallmark on the sheath remains legible, providing insight into its origins and material. The silver shows minor surface scratches and tarnishing, expected for an item of this age. The blades are intact and fit securely within the sheath, indicating that the functional aspect of the scissors remains preserved. There are no significant dents or damages that affect the structural integrity of the item.

Dimensions

Weight: 10gm, Length: 9cm, Width: 3.6cm.

A Tool for Fine Embroidery

These scissors were primarily crafted for embroidery, a popular activity during the time of their creation. The compact size and sharp blades would have made them ideal for cutting threads with precision, essential in intricate needlework. The inclusion of a sheath not only protected the blades but also suggested that the scissors were a valued possession, possibly carried by their owner to different locations. The design and material choice reflect the importance of embroidery in the past, where such tools were as much about utility as they were about personal expression and status.

Traditional Dutch Silver Craftsmanship

The design and hallmark of these scissors point to a Dutch origin, a country with a long history of silver craftsmanship. Dutch silver from this period is known for its fine quality and detailed work, characteristics evident in the intricate handle design of these scissors. The silverwork reflects the period's stylistic tendencies towards both functionality and decoration. The hallmark not only denotes authenticity but also connects the item to the broader tradition of European silverwork, where artisans took great pride in their craft, producing items that were both practical and beautiful.

The Craft of Silver and Sheath Making

The making of these scissors would have involved careful craftsmanship, particularly in the creation of the intricate silver handles and the sheath. The silver would have been moulded and engraved by hand, a process requiring considerable skill. The hallmarking process, a method of guaranteeing the purity of the silver, indicates the care taken in their production. The sheath, serving both a protective and decorative function, would have been custom-fitted to the blades, ensuring a snug fit. Such attention to detail highlights the quality and expertise involved in creating these tools.

Attributed to a Dutch Silversmith

While the exact maker of these scissors is unidentified, the hallmark points towards a Dutch origin, suggesting a maker familiar with the standards of Dutch silver craftsmanship. Dutch silversmiths were renowned for their attention to detail and the quality of their silverwork. This piece reflects those high standards, with its intricate handle design and durable construction. The hallmark provides a clue to its provenance, linking it to a tradition of skilled artisans who produced items that were both practical and artistic, serving the needs of their clientele with precision and style.

Collected by Enthusiasts of Antique Sewing Tools

Embroidery scissors like these are often sought after by collectors who appreciate the blend of functionality and artistry. Collectors value such items for their historical significance and the craftsmanship they represent. The hallmark and silver design make them particularly attractive to those with an interest in Dutch silver or antique sewing tools. As a collectible, these scissors offer a glimpse into the pastimes and domestic life of a bygone era, providing a tangible connection to the history of textile arts and the personal tools that facilitated them.