ENGLAND, 18TH OR 19TH CENTURY | Massive Fid

In overall good condition with minor scratches and age cracks consistent with age and use. Lovely colour and patination.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Fid’s have been used in seamanship for millennia. Conceived to splice rope as well as to hold open knots and holes in canvas. This massive example has been turned from one of the hardest woods known, lignum vitae, a difficult task in its own right. This exotic timber is extremely durable, especially when at sea. The present example is rare because of its size and would have been used for truly enormous sections of rope. It is also tempting to think it was procured from an exotic origin on a distant, ocean going voyage.