Product Details
A GOOD VICTORIAN SCOTTISH DRESS DIRK WITH WHITE-METAL MOUNTS, PROBABLY SIGNED P.G. WILSON, INVERNESS,
circa 1870, with single edged 12in. blade, scalloped along the back and false edged for the last 5 3/8in., the left side of blade stamped centrally 'P.G. WILSON, 8 UNION ST, INVERNESS' (name partially obscured), shallow fuller alongside scalloped section, white metal collar engraved with geometrics, finely carved wood hilt in traditional plaited style with white metal mounts to the shoulders and engraved white metal pommel-cap, complete with its black embossed leather scabbard with en-suite white metal mounts at throat, drag and around the apertures for the matching companion knife and fork, twin suspension rings to a bar on reverse
Provenance: A hand-written note accompanying the dirk reads " The property of the late J. Alan Rennie, Scottish Historian and author. Presented to him by Lord Balharrie. Over 100 years old."
J Alan Rennie is listed as a Scottish author but later, his dates being 1899-1969, and therefore this dirk was probably second hand when he acquired it. No record of a Lord Balharrie (a misspelling?) appears to exist. However the maker is very interesting. Peter George Wilson, born 1845 was a prestigious maker of Highland jewellery in Inverness. He moved to 8 Union Street, Inverness in 1865 and remained there until 1873 when he relocated to 44 High Street. (hence this dirk dates to 1865-1873). Baron Rothschild visited his shop and was so impressed that he purchased several pieces. They were seen by the Prince and Princess of Wales and in 1867 Wilson was summoned to Balmoral where he received large orders from Queen Victoria and the Royal Family. In 1868 he was granted the Royal Warrant. The business was sold off in 1915
Please click HERE to view Terms & Conditions. Please note all Lots are listed in accordance with UK Law, for overseas buyers, please ensure you are familiar with your relevant local firearms and customs regulations before bidding.
Estimate £800-1,200
This bladed product is not for sale to people under the age of 18. By bidding on this item you are declaring that you are 18 years of age or over.
Please be aware that we are unable to send edged weapons or bladed products by postal courier to a UK residential address (Offensive Weapons Act 2019)