Whetstone Collection
"Unveiling the Ancient Art of Whetstone: From Bronze Handles to Rococo Paintings" Step back in time and explore the fascinating world of whetstones
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"Unveiling the Ancient Art of Whetstone: From Bronze Handles to Rococo Paintings" Step back in time and explore the fascinating world of whetstones, a tool that has been sharpening blades for centuries. Dating back to 1100-900 BC, the Ibex Whetstone Handle made of cast bronze showcases the early craftsmanship and ingenuity of our ancestors. Le Vocabulaire Illustre takes us on a linguistic journey with engravings depicting "Affiloir, " "Whetstone, " and "Schleifstein, " showcasing how different cultures have embraced this essential tool throughout history. In an advertisement from October 1933, Londoners were enticed by litho images promoting the versatility and effectiveness of whetstones. Meanwhile, Charles-Joseph Natoire's oil painting "Cupid sharping an arrow" captures a whimsical moment in art history where even Cupid himself relied on a trusty whetstone. Photographs capture everyday life at Swan With Two Necks PH in Whetstone, London, reminding us that while technology advances, some traditions remain unchanged. The image also transports us to South Kensington where Dr Schliemann's Trojan Antiquities are displayed - perhaps including ancient whetstones used by warriors long ago. The lithograph featuring a knife grinder highlights one of many old trades that relied heavily on whetstones. These skilled craftsmen ensured sharp blades for their customers' daily needs. Similarly, Grosjean's comical chromolitho depicts him swapping his goose for a whetstone before accidentally dropping it down a well – reminding us that even mishaps can occur during blade maintenance. Traveling further back in time to France during the 19th century reveals workshops dedicated solely to sharpening metal feathers used for quills or pens. Additionally, cutlery shops dotted provincial towns as metiers thrived alongside evolving industries.