Antique Close-Plated Sterling Silver Embroidery Scissors in Sheath * Circa 1780s

Description

Antique Close-Plated Sterling Silver Embroidery Scissors in Sheath
English * Circa 1780s
These early and high-quality scissors are covered with plates of sterling silver in a technique called Close Plating*. The sheath is solid sterling silver (all tested).
They are not marked but English silversmiths didn't hallmark small items (and have to pay duty on them) until required to by law in the early 1880s.
The steel blades are tight and rust free with needle sharp points and they cut very well to the tips. The silver on the sheath is in excellent condition with no dents, repairs or other damage. This is a very rare pair of scissors. Often the sterling has flaked off of the steel, but these are almost perfect. The scissors measure 4 1/8" long and are 4 3/4" in the sheath.
* Close plating was an 18th century technique that predates silver plating. A layer of pure silver was applied to an article made of a base metal, most often iron or steel. The object was first smoothed and thoroughly cleaned. It was then heated in a charcoal fire and afterwards submerged into first a solution of salt-ammoniac and then into a molten tin. This completed the fusion of the steel and tin and the item was allowed to cool. A sheet of sterling silver was then used to cover the item. It was smoothed carefully and pressed unto place by means of a hot soldering iron, which caused the tin to melt and fuse to the silver. Overlapping edges of silver were swept away. Places where the silver met were carefully fused and burnished so that all seams were totally invisible. Chased designs could then be added to the surface. If the piece comes into contact with dampness, the steel or iron can rust and the silver peel off. This is often how you can tell it's an actual close plated piece. The condition of this pair is exceptional.
I stand behind everything that I offer and
guarantee
that it is exactly as presented.
** Full Insurance is included in the low shipping price for all of my auctions. **
I accept payment through PayPal, eBay or a check.
Join with others who love thimbles & needlework tools
Join Thimble Collectors International
Despite the name, this organization is for people who collect needlework tools And thimbles.
It's the largest collector's group in the world focusing on these wonderful little pieces of history.
The membership benefits are outstanding. They have a convention every two years where you'll have a chance to attend great programs and meet others sharing your interests.
You will receive an excellent quarterly magazine, the "Bulletin".
The member's sections of the website have dozens of research articles, hundreds of fake and repro items to beware of and price guides. There is also a chat room where you can ask questions and get expert feedback about your collection. Check them out today at thimblecollectors dot com.