A Worcester Knife, circa 1760
This Worcester pistol-grip knife handle is painted in underglaze blue with the uncommon Formal Floral pattern. The small size would suggest it was used for eating game.
This style of painting with its foliate scrolls and stylised flowers is loosely based on those of French factories, such as Saint-Cloud. The insect is a charming touch.
The curved steel blade is attached to the porcelain handle with a scalloped silver ferrule.
Provenance: An English Private Collection.
Condition: Excellent – no cracks or restoration, just some kiln speckling to the end of the haft.
Dimensions: Length (including blade) 20.5 cm
Worcester Blue and White Porcelain 1751-1790, Branyan, French & Sandon, I.E.44 (Barrie & Jenkins, 1989).
Worcester Porcelain 1751-1790: The Zorensky Collection, Simon Spero & John Sandon (Antique Collectors’ Club, 1996).