EXHIBITION DISPLAY OF THOMAS ELLIN & CO. CUTLERY.

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/12/2026

Thomas Ellin & Co. was one of many Sheffield firms that helped establish Britain's reputation for superior iron and steel manufacturing during the Victorian era. As a prominent Sheffield cutlery firm, Thomas Ellin & Co. participated as an exhibitor at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, where they received an Honorable Mention for their display. Based at the Sylvester Works in Sheffield, the company showcased a variety of specialized cutlery and steel products aimed at various trades. The frame of this display features a plaque at the bottom that reads "FRANK E. FARMERY / CABINET & SHOWCASE MAKER / SHEFFIELD.". Frank Farmery (1866-1927) is listed on the 1881 census as a cabinet maker at the age of 15 and again on the 1891 census as a cabinet maker at age 25. This stunning display likely dates to the late Victorian era/turn of the century and features over 100 pieces of cutlery laid out in exhibition grade manner. The company's legacy continued into the early 20th century, when Thomas R. Ellin won a Gold Medal for artisan tools at the 1906 New Zealand International Exhibition. Due to its stunning appearance, it is likely that this display was used during the the 1906 New Zealand exhibition to assert their dominance as a prominent Sheffield-based cutlery manufacturer. The exhibition board showcases the firm's capabilities by displaying a variety of cutlery including folding knives for various uses, scissors, razors, table ware, utility knives, etc. Each is numbered so they can be referenced in a catalog. Many blades exhibit the firm's "VULCAN" marking. All exhibit varying degrees of light patina. The scissors act as a panoply of arms in a medieval castle, as they surround a mirror which displays the company's logo. The board is complete and all pieces remain firmly secured. Frame exhibits wear and a few cracks and scuffs but remains intact and sturdy. Consigner states that this exhibition board was displayed at A.G. Russell's office for many years. A commanding piece still worthy of exhibit. CONDITION: Very good.

This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.

Item Dimensions: 48" x 38" x 4"

Name

Value

Blade Length

Various

Overall Length

Various