*British, c1895-1906, Victorian Bowie Knife and Leather Scabbard, “Mazeppa” brand, by Reuss & Co, Sheffield”*
Approx measurements: 25cm blade, 37.5cm overall.
On the ricasso the makers image of a racing saddled horse, named “Mazeppa”, on the blade the makers name “Reuss & Co, Sheffield”. Stag horn grips with 6 pins. Brass reversed cross guard.
Ernest George Reuss (1844-1898), born in Monswiller, France, relocated to England in 1868. He partnered with Joseph T. Deakin to establish Deakin, Reuss & Co at Tiger Works, West Street, exporting cutlery to Spain and South America. Upon departing from Deakin in 1895, Reuss took over Samuel Hancock & Sons, acquiring its ‘MAZEPPA’ mark, this was a reference to Ivan Mazeppa, a historical Cossack figure in Ukraine, who had been bound naked to a horse’s back as a punishment for adultery. Reuss launched Reuss & Co at Mazeppa Works, Charlotte Street, continuing cutlery exports to Spain and South America. In 1898, his son Percy assumed control after Reuss’s death. In 1906, ‘PLATA REUSS’ was registered for plated wares, and John Crossland’s skull and crossbones mark was acquired. Woodhead (1991) depicts another Reuss mark, featuring a lion, shield, and the word ‘VIZCAYA’. The firm liquidated in 1922, with the Mazeppa mark selling to Charles Henry, then Viners, and finally to Worth & Co.
*Condition*
In good used condition. Very snug fitting leather scabbard in excellent condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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