2008-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2008
The "David's,"(father and son) were among the most prominent citizens (and early settlers) of Canada with credible evidence of a New York family background. (Further research likely to yield a more detailed story.) An outstanding example of a topmost quality, classically American made knife of that early era (two other about identical examples are known, obviously by the same maker). This knife is illustrated in two widely recognized works on American arms: "STEEL CANVAS; THE ART OF AMERICAN ARMS" by R. L. Wilson; (Random House pub. 1995) and "THE BOWIE KNIFE; UNSHEATHING AN AMERICAN LEGEND" Mowbray Pub, 2004 (illus. in that latter work to demonstrate the historic development of American knives that ultimately evolved in the 1830's to the "Bowie knife").13 ½ inches overall with 9 inch single edge blade; exc. and better; a few faint rust blemishes on obverse with inscribed letters "A*O" (likely indicating bladesmith); reverse has few larger rust blemishes or small patches of minor faint pitting, all easily cleaned. Hilt exc.+; a superb example of the silversmith's skill and typical of similar work observed on silver hilted swords of same era. Handsome large 5 point silver star and silver oval plaque inlays on both sides of the horn grips. All exc.+; just normal aging. Original leather sheath entirely intact, very sound; usual flaking on the surface only; no breaks or seam openings. Original silver tip and wide upper mount. A rare feature seldom encountered on early knives, is the original, exquisitely made iron belt clip attached by silver rings and two expertly fashioned iron link chains to the top mount of the sheath. Belt clip identical to those attached to swords of same era but miniature in size, and original to this knife. Research reveals the DAVIDS to be father and son of that distinguished early Canadian Jewish family. David David was particularly prominent and long regarded among the most respected citizens of Montreal, his name intimately associated with every economic enterprise, philanthropic and social event of importance; few men being more active in public affairs of the city. He was a founder of the BANK OF MONTREAL and one of its original directors 1818, continuing in that capacity until his death 1824; also charter member of Montreal Board of Trade and one of first governors of the Montreal General Hospital…and much more in the civic and Hebrew communities (considerable mention of him is read in "History of the Jews of Canada" by B. G. Sack 1945).Not merely a knife that is an outstanding and rare example of its type, but with an unparalleled associated Jewish history.
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