A fine pair of steel sewing scissors. 18thc.

A fine pair of steel sewing scissors. 18thc.An early pair of cut steel scissors in a tooled maroon leather sheath. c1780 1800. This pair has silver finger rings mounted onto the steel indicating London manufacture rather than Sheffield. Some surface deterioration to the steel but nothing major. The leather sheath is worn and creased towards the bottom. Scissors 8. 5cm long Sheath 7cm Stock no. LR23

The spangle incorporates a cowrie shell which was also likely to be a cherished memento

The blades almost meet at the point ( see photo ) and they do cut although will need sharpening if they are to be put to use

In excellent condition- slight rubbing to the centre of the japanning on each lid showing the brass beneath

Although one of the two reels shows obvious signs of it being made of domestic animal bone the other doesn't but they are a pair

Decorated with inlaid pewter spots

green and black

They are cleverly done with a lot of detail and are layered to give a 3D effect

The cutlers mark on the scissors is partially obscured by the rivet but ends in 'onus' so possibly a trade name- Bonus

The mirror is in good condition and swings

(see the last photo)

There is no major damage but one corner has opened on the lid

and the pattern is slightly narrower on one part of the rim