Antique Sterling Silver Stiletto / Awl

English * Hallmarked 1903

The sterling silver handle of this antique stiletto has all over scrolling designs that include a green man* mask and a little bird. It is stamped with the British sterling hallmarks for London 1903. The condition is excellent with no dents or other damage. It measures 4 7/8" long and the turned shank is steel.

*The green man is a sculpture or other representation of a face surrounded by or made from leaves. It is primarily interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, representing the cycle of growth each spring.

Stilettos had a variety of uses including unpicking stitches and creating eyelet holes in fabric that were then embroidered around in a technique called Broderie Anglais. They were also used to transfer design outlines to fabric, pricking paper patterns along the lines and then rubbing them with a pounce pad or colored chalk powder.

Despite the name, this organization is for people who collect needlework tools And thimbles. It's the largest collectors group in the world focusing on these wonderful little pieces of history.

The membership benefits are outstanding. They have a convention every two years where you'll have a chance to attend great programs and meet others sharing your interests. You will receive an excellent quarterly magazine, the "Bulletin". The member's sections of the website have dozens of research articles, hundreds of fake and repro items to beware of and a specialist auction site. There is also a chat room where you can ask questions and get expert feedback about your collection. Check them out today at thimblecollectors dot com.