A superb 19th century carving set, English Sheffield maker, Walker & Hall, signed on the steel blade. The handles are just fabulous! Made of antlers, thick and heavy and trimmed out with rare pistol grip handles which look for all the world like fine sterling silver, but have no hallmarks so I can only assume they are thick silver plate. They polish beautifully, as you can see, and the pistol grip is so rare to find. I've had French Sterling table knives with pistol grip, and we used to use this carving set alongside those - just as elegant. The 17" knife has a 19th century steel blade which remains very sharp. A superb set, whether formal dining or informal. Shown on one of my plates, the plate is not included. Just the carving set.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the set is Victorian in age, elegantly crafted and sturdy in the hand. Heavy antler, whether deer or elk, I'm unsure, but it is natural. The ferule and tip look to be sterling but are without hallmark, so a very nice silver plate. Blade of that carving knife is sharp and while it shows a little staining like all old steel blades do, you'll slice through an entire lamb or beef side easily, cleanly. We've used the set many times - always to rave reviews. Downsizing!
