^Lot 5089 MASSIVE CIRCA 1835 SHEFFIELD BOWIE.

18" overall, 12.75" clip point blade with Spanish notch, .26" thick, light etched edge panels with vines, leaves, and berries, along with "WARRANTED OF BEST QUALITY" at top edge. "G. OATES / SHEFFIELD" is stamped on ricasso. Sculptured solid cast German silver handle with nicely figured horn slab panelsGeorge Oates (1810-1861) was well known scissor manufacturer in Sheffield. He is found in Sheffield directories in 1820s up to 1833 as scissor maker, but in 1837 he is listed as scissor & dagger maker. His foray into knives was short as by 1840 and all directories later, he is listed only as scissor manufacturer employing 30 workers at his death. The demand for bowies in 1830s was strong and Sheffield cutlers made many in this period to rival American makers like Schively, Rose, Chevalier and others. There are several other large distinctive cast frame bowies by Oates and all unique elegant design. CONDITION: fine overall, some luster to blade with staining & light pitting, etched motto is light and worn; horn slabs have age patina. German silver hilt sound, cleaned with toned silver patina. PROVENANCE: Rick Mack collection. (02-27220/JS). $6,000-8,000.