Stan Shaw (1927-2021) was a Sheffield master cutler and craftsman, known as the "Little Mester". Born in Worrall in Sheffield, one of eight children. In the early 1940's he gained an apprenticeship at the famous cutlers George Ibberson's where he learnt his craft. In 1983 he became an independent cutlery maker or little mester and had a workshop in Garden Street, he later moved to Kelham Island Museum in 2009. In 2003 he was made a Honorary Freeman of the company of cutlers and in 2017 was awarded the British Empire Medal.
Well known for his multi bladed exhibition knives, Stan often had a four year waiting list for his knives and made several knives for the Royal family and even Elvis Presley was a collector!
Sheffield made pen and bowie knives are extremely collectable and examples are also invited from makers such as Herbert Edgwick, J Howarth, William Rodgers, T.W. Ablett, Wostenholme, Saynor, Army & Navy, etc.
Please contact us to discuss your items or requirements in more detail, by emailing enquire@sheffieldauctiongallery.com or by telephone on 0114 281 6161.
If you have any enquiries please contact the Saleroom Office. (Full details can be found on our Contact Us page.)
Recent Department Highlights
Stan Shaw; An Exhibition Multi-Blade/Tool Pocket Knife No. 14 scissors pen blade castrator blade sheep foot blade clip blade long spear blade fleam button hook screwdriver saw and tackler blade (eleven pieces) with pearl scales silver bolsters and bars engraved workback to blades and springs 18cm closed in a fitted black leatherette presentation case and with original purchase invoice.
Sold for £4,200
+ Buyer's Premium
Stan Shaw; A Fifteen Piece Exhibition Knife Stamped No. 11 scissors pen blade long spear pocket blade lambfoot blade clip point blade sheepfoot blade eraser blade castrator blade corn blade fleam button hook tackler blade peach pruner blade saw and screwdriver with mother of pearl scales silver bolsters and bars hand engraved workback to springs and edge of blades 23cm closed in a fitted oak box with original receipt.
Sold for £4,800
+ Buyer's Premium
Stan Shaw; Eleven Blade Knife with mother of pearl scales silver bolsters workback to all springs and blades 10cm closed in a fitted box.
Sold for £1,600
+ Buyer's Premium
Stan Shaw; A Two Blade Corkscrew Lock Knife polished horn scales nickel silver fishtail bolster both engraved workback to all edges lanyard ring 16cm closed in a fitted box.
Sold for £650
+ Buyer's Premium
Auction Bidding
We produce detailed catalogues for all auctions and sales are all listed fully illustrated on both our website and other specialist auction bidding websites. Our regular email keeps both trade and private buyers fully updated. Auctions are widely advertised within the press.
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Specialist valuers are available in the Saleroom, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays from 10am to 4pm for free pre-auction appraisals and advice. We also hold regular Specialist 'Fine Arts & Antiques' Valuation Days in the Saleroom by appointment.