6 Sheffield Fruit Knives E. Leclere with Cream Handles in Original Case – Vintage 1930s–50s England

A distinguished set of six fruit and dessert knives from Sheffield, England, by E. Leclere – with cream, ivory-like celluloid handles, in the original presentation case.

Character

The blades are deeply stamped "E. LECLERE / NON-STAIN STEEL / SHEFFIELD". The black textured case is lined with midnight-black velvet and satin in the lid and closes with two brass latches – very much in the style of English country-house tables.

Details & Condition

• Maker: E. Leclere, Sheffield, England
• Quantity: 6 knives
• Blade: stainless steel ("Non-Stain Steel")
• Handles: celluloid/xylonite in ivory look (not ivory)
• Knife length: approx. 17.5 cm / 6.9 in
• Case: approx. 19 × 15 cm / 7.5 × 5.9 in
• Date: 1930s–1950s
• Condition: excellent; blades clean with light signs of use, handles without cracks, case closes securely, lining with age marks

Uses

For fruit, cheese and cake at afternoon tea or the Christmas coffee table – a stylish gift for lovers of English table culture.

Care

Hand wash only; do not soak the handles or put them in the dishwasher.

At the flea market in Waidhofen an der Thaya the brass latches of the case clicked open – and there lay six knives, neat as guests at tea.

Six knives for five o'clock tea — Things with Soul · VintageAustriaShop