Exceptional Hallmark Of Saddler - 18th Century

Spectacular work of mastery in wrought iron for a punch, or awl, of saddler or saddler, France, 18th century. We can assume that this very luxurious punch for leather was given to an apprentice who became a master. A very beautiful handle in the shape of a very ornate key handle decorated with hearts and spades extends into a perforated ball. A tapered octagonal case hides the punch. You can discover the latter by unscrewing a small hidden screw. This does not press the punch so as not to mark it, but is inserted into a gutter which prevents the case from slipping. Superb work of a master in ironwork for a master in upholstery. Size: 13.7cm in length with case; the handle: 4.3x4.3cm.