249 - Set of knives and carving set. MAPPIN BROTHERS. England, late 19th century.

Set of knives and carving set. MAPPIN BROTHERS. England, late 19th century. Steel blades and bone handles. Mahogany case with compartmentalized interior and blue cloth lining. Features an interior plaque reading “Mappin Brothers, 66 Cheapside E.C. & 220 Regent Street W., London.” In good condition. Shows signs of use consistent with its age. Case measurements: 6 x 42 x 30 cm. Provenance: Family bequest of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. An art and heritage collection originating from the legacy of the Catalan painters Ramon Martí Alsina (1826–1894), a key figure in 19th-century Catalan Realism, and his son Ricard Martí Aguiló (1857–1935). Passed down and enriched over successive generations, the collection brings together works from the original estates of both artists, along with new acquisitions made by their descendants. They remained particularly dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the family legacy, acquiring works by the painters themselves as they came onto the market and gradually expanding the collection with paintings, sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and other objects of artistic and historical interest. This set is a fine example of the prestigious English cutlery production of the late 19th century, a field in which Mappin Brothers achieved particular renown. The case contains various knives and utensils designed for serving and carving meat, arranged in individual compartments, with blades and metal components paired with elegant light-colored handles. The presentation in a mahogany case reflects the prestigious status these tableware sets acquired in Victorian society. Mappin Brothers had its origins in Sheffield, one of the great historic centers of British cutlery, and during the 19th century developed a significant production of silverware, knives, and items made of silver and silver-plated metal. The firm opened stores in London and gained widespread recognition for the quality of its products; its period advertisements specifically highlighted knives with ivory handles and tableware sets presented in cases. In 1902, the company became part of Mappin & Webb.