LARGE SHEFFIELD BOWIE WITH CARVED NEGRO HEAD POMMEL.

LARGE SHEFFIELD BOWIE WITH CARVED NEGRO HEAD POMMEL. This large clip point knife with 10″ blade is descended from a local Maine family with earlier ties to New Orleans. Family history states this knife was obtained in New Orleans and has never left family till now. A beautiful gilted brass scabbard matches the gilted crossguard and ferrule. This was a high grade scabbard for a Sheffield knife. Similar knives are found with cardboard or leather scabbards. Etched motto on one side of blade is not discernible, however opposite side “Always ready” can be read. The carved ivory Negro head is a very unusual element we have never seen before on a knife and must have been added at some point after its manufacture, possibly in New Orleans where consignor states it originated in family. The ivory grip is typical of this James Rodgers style knife but, as stated, the head is not. Similar carved heads are found in the mid-19th century on other objects such as walking sticks. This is a most unusual knife that should make a great addition to an American knife collection. CONDITION: Blade is gray/bright with much original etching visible under areas of scattered pitting and staining. Brass guard is loose. Scabbard retains much of its original gilt, as can be seen in photographs, but has numerous small dents and tip of scabbard is blunted. Carved ivory grip and head exhibit age cracks but are solid. 4-33434 JS38 (15,000-20,000)

Auction: Firearms - Fall 2008

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	2454	$10,925.00	LARGE SHEFFIELD BOWIE WITH CARVED NEGRO HEAD POMMEL. This large clip point knife with 10″ blade is descended from a local Maine family with earlier ties to New Orleans. Family history states this knife was obtained in New Orleans and has never left family till now. A beautiful gilted brass scabbard matches the gilted crossguard and ferrule. This was a high grade scabbard for a Sheffield knife. Similar knives are found with cardboard or leather scabbards. Etched motto on one side of blade is not discernible, however opposite side “Always ready” can be read. The carved ivory Negro head is a very unusual element we have never seen before on a knife and must have been added at some point after its manufacture, possibly in New Orleans where consignor states it originated in family. The ivory grip is typical of this James Rodgers style knife but, as stated, the head is not. Similar carved heads are found in the mid-19th century on other objects such as walking sticks. This is a most unusual knife that should make a great addition to an American knife collection. CONDITION: Blade is gray/bright with much original etching visible under areas of scattered pitting and staining. Brass guard is loose. Scabbard retains much of its original gilt, as can be seen in photographs, but has numerous small dents and tip of scabbard is blunted. Carved ivory grip and head exhibit age cracks but are solid. 4-33434 JS38 (15,000-20,000) Auction: Firearms - Fall 2008 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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