Knife Collection: 35 Knives & 3 Forks - Assorted Sheffield & English Makers - Historical Collectibles
A remarkable collection of 35 vintage knives and 3 forks, featuring a variety of Sheffield-made and English cutlery. This assortment includes pieces from renowned makers such as Robert Kelly & Sons Ltd, Thomas W. Cork & Sons, H. Samuel, and many others. Each knife carries a unique history, making this collection a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage cutlery.
1.Robert Kelly & Sons Ltd, Liverpool (1930-1940s):x1
Knife: Stainless steel blade with an Ivorine handle (also known as Celluloid/Xylonite/Xylo), hand-engraved with "Sheffield England".
History: Robert Kelly & Sons Ltd, established in 1875 in Liverpool, was a hardware store known for its high-quality tools and cutlery. This knife, made in Sheffield, reflects the firms longstanding relationship with Sheffield cutlers.
2. Thomas W. Cork & Sons, Sheffield (8 Knives, 20.5-24.5 cm):
Knives: Stainless steel blades marked "RAZOR EDGE STAINLESS".
History: Founded by Thomas Walburn Cork in 1919, this company became known for its high-quality stainless knives. The company was later incorporated in 1963 and continued producing innovative cutlery until the late 20th century.
3. H. Samuel Ltd, Sheffield (2 Knives, 24 cm):x2
Knives: Stainless steel blades with Xylonite handles.
History: H. Samuel, a famous UK jeweler, also sold cutlery. The company, founded by Moses Samuel in the 19th century, expanded to include over 200 stores by the 20th century. This knife predates 1914, as indicated by its use of shear steel.
4. Oetzmann & Co, Hampstead, London:x1
Knife: Stainless steel blade marked "Firth Stainless".
History: Founded in 1848, Oetzmann & Co was a prominent furniture and house furnishing company. They also offered quality cutlery, including this stainless steel knife.
5. T. Petersen & Company Ltd, Sheffield: x1
Knife: Stainless steel blade marked "Firth Stainless".
History: Petersen & Co., based in Sheffield, was known for producing high-quality cutlery, using Sheffields famous stainless steel.
6. APIS (Joseph Rodgers & Co., Sheffield, c.1916-1920): x1
Knife: Unstainable steel blade marked "Sheffield".
History: Joseph Rodgers & Co., a prestigious Sheffield cutlery manufacturer, produced this knife during the early 20th century.
7. JT Middleton, Sheffield (1x Bread Knife, 33 cm)
Knife: Firth stainless steel blade.
History: J. T. Middleton, a family-run operation, was active from the late 19th century to 1940. Known for their scissors, the firm also produced high-quality table knives.
8. Best English Sheffield Cutlery (8 Knives, Various Sizes):(8 Knives)
Knives: Stainless steel blades, including 5 knives (24.5 cm) and 3 knives (21 cm).
History: Made in Sheffield, these knives represent the citys rich tradition of cutlery craftsmanship.
9. W & J.A Baxter Ltd, Sheffield: (7 knives 21-24CM)
Knife: Stainless steel blade marked "Bradley Nairobi".
History: W & J.A Baxter Ltd was a reputable Sheffield cutlery manufacturer, with a history of producing durable and high-quality blades.
4x Dessert Knives 21cm unmarked
3x Dessert Forks 18.5-19cm
1 is marked with Allen & Darwin and company trade mark was an hourglass
Charles James Allen (1853-1938) and Sidney Darwin (1851-1928) joined forces in 1887. Allen had been born in Kentish Town, London, the son of Charles Vincent Allen, a jeweller, and his wife, Amy. Allens first job as a teenager was as clicker in the boot trade. Darwin was born in Sheffield, the son of William Darwin, a draper, and his wife, Elizabeth. He was the grandson of John Darwin, the owner of Elsecar Ironworks, and worked for several firms before he met Allen. He was apprenticed to Walker & Hall and then held managerial posts with James Deakin & Sons, Lee & Wigfull, and a London silver firm. Allen & Darwin specialised in silver and plated goods, registering silver marks at the Sheffield Assay Office in 1887 and 1892. The company was based at Portland Works, 55 Arundel Street, and before 1914 had a London office in the Hatton Garden / Holborn area. The partnership made silver fruit-knives, fish carvers, dessert knives, and cased goods.
Condition:
All items are in good vintage condition with signs of wear consistent with age. Please refer to the photos for detailed images of each knife. This collection would be a valuable addition to any vintage cutlery collection.
Note: This collection represents a fascinating glimpse into the history of Sheffield cutlery and English craftsmanship. Each knife tells a story of its time, making this a unique and collectible set.
