This French
gentleman folding, termed *Solognot* is a wonderful example of the
Chatellearult Cutlery.
The first
charter of cutlery dates from May 1771 shows the existence of 50 master cutlers
which signifies that the cutlery industry existed already since a long time.
The manufacture at that time was of swords, large daggers, epees etc. From
medieval times to the early 20th century, and particularly in the 18th and 19th
centuries Chatellerault was a centre of knife-making. The industry ranged from
large well regarded establishments such as Pagé frères to much humbler and
smaller scale cottage manufactories. Chatellerault was famous for its Arms
factory and the folding cutlery industry. When they were short of work the
gunsmith workers used to look for some in the cutlery factories, and it also
worked the other way round. This explains the fact that the production of the
pieces made in Châtellerault were very much turned to an hunting style.
This
wonderful dagger was surely created for hunting purposes but should either be
used as an excellent self-defence knife.
Blade is
straight, single edged with pronounced false edge and clip pointed, yatagan style.
The blade has a clasp locking system to avoid accidental closing of the keen
edged blade and features a ring to pull to release it once opened. The dagger
is finished with bone scales, finely painted with floral and knights decorations.
Central MOP plate. Steel bolsters and liners.
37 cm long
when folded (including the tiny bail), blade is full and measures 33,5 cm long
Wonderful
conditions mainly considering age and type, full blade with minor pitting or
staining. Some up and down play in the locked open position
No chips or
cracks to the antique scales.