This is a very fine pair of Victorian sterling silver scissors - I think that they are designed for cutting grapes - but of course, could also be used for sewing.
The top of the shears are highly ornamented with have intricate cut-out section underneath the finger holes. They have the most finely engraved pattern all over the anterior surfaces.
This bright cut engraved decoration is very crisp and with exquisite detail
This fantastic decoration is very Victorian in style and mainly floral with fine chased geometric patterns around the edges.
There is also a vacant shaped cartouche just below the finger grasps of each handle.
More engraved decoration along the top edge of the upper cutting blade.
The other side of the shears are plain - and the decoration formed by the pierce work.
On the reserve under each of the finger-holes are clear hallmarks for London 1891.
And the makers mark: JA and TS in a quatrefoil. This is for John Aldwinckle & Thomas Slater.
As a good sign of quality - the silversmiths have added two thin strips of steel to the cutting edges of the scissor to keep their sharpness.
My lovely scissors are in their original hinged black leather fitted presentation box.
The lid on the interior is lined with a claret coloured silk and the base with a matching velvet - with ruffled trim around for decorative effect.
Weight: 80 grams
Length of the shears is just over 6 1/2 inches.
An exceptional pair of grape shears for the specialist collector.
The quality of these is reflected in my asking price.
Postage quoted is for UK Special Next Day Delivery with the Royal Mail.