Large Antique French Navaja, Châtellerault, 50 cms, 1850

Awesome antique folding knife, big in size and in wonderful condition. When the blade is out, the knife is 50 cm long (almost 20'') The knife is more than 150 years old and comes from the French Châtellerault region, where it was made in the mid 19th century (1850). It is greatly preserved: no component part is missing and the blade is also in good condition. The folding knifes scales are made of bone, mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell, showing off a decoration that combines these three fine natural materials in a stylish and elegant way. The mixture of the delicate scales and the fearsome-looking blade creates a strong and singular piece with a remarkable decorative power. The knifes scales are mounted on a steel base trimmed by a pommel shaped like two spheres. Mounted on the base at each side of the handle we can see the bone, mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell pieces. Each scale mounts three pieces, one of each material and all of them of the same size. The pieces are connected to the steel base by four small rivets each. The combination of the materials colors (the pinkish-ochre bone, the shiny white mother-of-pearl and the blackish shades of tortoiseshell) creates an elegant and subtle effect. The central mother-of-pearl pieces preserve a fine hand-engraved decoration composed of symmetrical decorative motifs. The bone pieces also show remains of the original engraved decoration, subtly blurred by the trace of time and use. The blade of the folding knife is as beautiful and impressive as the handle, if not more. Forged in quality steel, it is in striking condition and with no traces of rust or wear. Plus, the edge shows no dents. The knife keeps the original steel rings connected to the handles ends which in early times should be attached to a carrying leather strap. The fearsome look and delicate beauty of this big-sized antique folding knife turn it into a truly gorgeous piece that will stand out in a collection of old-time weapons. Measurements: Folded: 10.63 in / 27 cm. Unfolded: 19.68 in / 50 cm.