Heavy Cast Whiting Sterling Silver & German Steel Grape Scissors

This pair of grape shears (identified as scissors in period catalogues) is a far more consequential item than most of its kindred examples.

Model number "1772" made by Whiting, and so identified on the collar of one handle, along with a "925/1000" sterling designation, they measure 6 5/8" long and weigh a substantial 4.63 T. oz.

The handles are cast and solid silver and constitute the bulk of the weight, with the plated steel cutting end the remaining portion of the total.

One of the blades of the actual scissors is marked "Germany," which would have been the source of the finest material of its sort in the period.

The handles are identical and feature a grape cluster on one side and a leaf on the other. The grips and shanks follow after the actual woody vine of grape plants.

The handles are placed (securely) in the blades inverted to one another so that the leaves overlay the grapes on each side and thus secure the handles to one another by friction.

In superb condition, the silver is flawless and absent polishing wear. The blades show some loss of their original plating but fit perfectly and cut well.