Neoclassical Tiger's Eye Gemstone with Classical Jugate Busts

The tapering blade with a single cutting edge; replica leather scabbard decorated with 'fleur de lys' and wooden handle with bulbous guard and pommel. 229 grams, 36.5 cm long



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

The term 'ballock dagger' was used in medieval times to describe a dagger with a grip bearing a considerable resemblance to a phallic symbol. It was also called 'kidney dagger' during the Victorian times. The constant characteristic is the presence of two roundish and symmetrical bulbs at the guard, with the grip itself emerging upward between them and flaring slightly towards the top, sometimes being surmounted by a cap.

Matched pair of miniature coin cabinets, each with brass lock and key, six removable sliding trays with graduated circular slots. 1.85 kg total, 19 x 16 x 9.8cm each



English private collection.

With waisted body, bulbous shoulder, everted rim, collared stem and tiered splayed foot, ornamented in repoussé bulbs and ogival ribs; lid with openwork rim of palmettes and foliate forms, central domes, finial with basket of palmettes, oval bulb above ornamented in pellets between spiral band, surmounted by a statuette, modelled in the round as Saint George, clad in armour, driving a spear into the dragon, with naturalistic detailing to the saint's features; various stamps to base; finial repaired. 613 grams, 43.6cm

Fine condition, finial repaired.

From the Deutsch collection, Germany. Ex central London gallery.