Spink
Auction 23148 31 May 2023
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Tudor (1485-1603), Elizabethan Cast Silver Bodkin and Integral Ear Scoop, c. 1580-1600, Engraved "A H" and Simplified but Detailed Floral Motif, 10.74g, 135mm. x 5.5mm. x 2mm. (Beaudry [2009], 96; BM 1853.0627.78), lightly cleamed with surface bruising to pin end, otherwise a pleasingly good very fine, scarce.
Provenance
"A Rare Collection of Early Cutlery, Personal Implements, Measuring Devices and Scientific Instruments, The Property of a Gentleman", Spink 20020, 27 January 2020, lot 170
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The main function of a bodkin was to thread bands of cords through a corset or other items of clothing. The ribbon or cord was threaded through the rectangular slit. A secondary function for bodkins was to punch holes in leather and other textiles such like a needle. Some examples have an additional small eye for suspending from a belt or chatelaine.
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The small scoop was used to pick earwax. Earwax was found to be an excellent lubricant for smoothing rough or frayed threads back into usable pieces of sewing yarn!
Estimate: £300 - £400
Provenance
"A Rare Collection of Early Cutlery, Personal Implements, Measuring Devices and Scientific Instruments, The Property of a Gentleman", Spink 20020, 27 January 2020, lot 170
, ,
The main function of a bodkin was to thread bands of cords through a corset or other items of clothing. The ribbon or cord was threaded through the rectangular slit. A secondary function for bodkins was to punch holes in leather and other textiles such like a needle. Some examples have an additional small eye for suspending from a belt or chatelaine.
, ,
The small scoop was used to pick earwax. Earwax was found to be an excellent lubricant for smoothing rough or frayed threads back into usable pieces of sewing yarn!
Estimate: £300 - £400