Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 7

An extraordinary George III thief's tool

$594.28
$1,054.3743% Off
£442.40
£784.9143% Off
€496
€88043% Off
CA$814.01
CA$1,444.2243% Off
A$905.36
A$1,606.2943% Off
CHF 472.75
CHF 838.7543% Off
MX$11,017.28
MX$19,546.7943% Off
NOK 6,037.76
NOK 10,712.1543% Off
SEK 5,662.35
SEK 10,046.1143% Off
DKK 3,775.87
DKK 6,699.1343% Off
Shipping
Retrieving quote...
The 1stDibs Promise:
Authenticity Guarantee,
Money-Back Guarantee,
24-Hour Cancellation

About the Item

In the shadows of the 18th century, when intrigue and subterfuge thrived, a remarkable artifact emerged as a testament to the ingenuity of the era's skilled craftsmen. Behold the extraordinary George III thief's tool, an exquisite handheld instrument that was both a tool of subterfuge and a work of art. This captivating artifact is a testament to the artistry and resourcefulness of thieves and their need to outsmart the increasingly sophisticated locks and purses of the time. Crafted during the reign of King George III, this cut steel thief's tool embodies a fusion of function and aesthetics, combining a curved bladed purse-slit with a delicate lockpick. The heart of this thief's tool lies in its slender and curved blade, specially designed to deftly slit the seams of purses with precision and stealth. The blade is a masterstroke of craftsmanship, finely honed to perform its illicit task with grace and effectiveness. What sets it apart, however, is the attention to detail lavished upon it. The base of the blade boasts an intricate pattern of engraved cross-hatched decoration, a testament to the artisan's skill and dedication to their craft. This ornamentation not only adds to the tool's visual appeal but also showcases the level of thought and care that went into its creation. The dual nature of this tool becomes apparent when you examine the opposite end, where a delicate lockpick is discreetly concealed. Designed to manipulate the intricate mechanisms of locks, this lockpick is a testament to the cunning and audacity of the individuals who wielded it. Its slender profile and nimble construction made it an indispensable companion for those who walked the shadowy paths of larceny in the 18th century. Beyond its undeniable functionality, this George III thief's tool serves as a captivating historical artifact, offering a glimpse into a bygone era where outlaws and lawmen engaged in a never-ending game of cat and mouse. The cut steel construction, along with the intricate engravings, highlights the level of craftsmanship and sophistication that existed even in the realm of criminal tools during the 18th century. Intricately designed, expertly crafted, and steeped in historical significance, this extraordinary George III thief's tool stands as a testament to an era of intrigue, where cunning and resourcefulness reigned supreme. Today, it serves as a tangible link to a time when those who dared to defy the law did so with both finesse and style, making it a unique and cherished piece for collectors and enthusiasts of history alike.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 0.12 in (3 mm)Width: 3.55 in (9 cm)Depth: 4.34 in (11 cm)
  • Style:
    George III (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chonburi, TH
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU8788236102592

More From This Seller

View All
Big Antique 17th century key
Located in Chonburi, TH
This Antique 17th-century wrought iron key is a fascinating artifact that transports us back to an era of intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance. T...
Category

Antique 17th Century Dutch Metalwork

Materials

Wrought Iron

Big Antique 17th century key
$172 Sale Price
20% Off
Art Nouveau Bronze style door handle
Located in Chonburi, TH
Art Nouveau style door handle cast Bronze.
Category

20th Century Art Nouveau Architectural Elements

Materials

Bronze

Antique Indonesian ceremonial bell
Located in Chonburi, TH
This Antique Indonesian brass bell holds a significant place in ceremonial practices conducted by priests. Crafted with meticulous detail, this bell ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Indonesian Metalwork

Materials

Brass

Antique Kotak Taji cockfighting spur container
Located in Chonburi, TH
The wood antique Kotak Taji cockfighting spur container is a captivating relic that immerses us in the rich heritage of this ancient sport. Crafted ...
Category

Early 20th Century Balinese Decorative Boxes

Materials

Steel

Antique Thai Bronze Hong bird
Located in Chonburi, TH
This exquisite 19th-century antique Thai bronze Hong bird is a stunning example of traditional craftsmanship and symbolic artistry. The Hong, a mythical bi...
Category

Antique 19th Century Thai Sculptures and Carvings

Materials

Bronze

Art Deco wall mounted coat hanger
Located in Chonburi, TH
Very nice Art-Deco wall coat hanger, with original patina.
Category

Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Wall Brackets

Materials

Metal

You May Also Like

Antique Weapon Keris Ukurian Ceremonial Sword Dagger Southeast Asia
Located in Amsterdam, Noord Holland
Weapon Keris Ukurian Ceremonial Sword Dagger. Nice keris Additional information: Material: Bronze & Metal, Wood / Bamboo Region of Origin: India/Indonesia Period: 19th century, 20th...
Category

20th Century Indian Arms, Armor and Weapons

Materials

Bronze

Antique Weapon Golok Klewang Keris Ceremonial Sword Dagger Southeast, 19/20c
Located in Amsterdam, Noord Holland
Weapon Golok Klewang Keris Ceremonial Sword Dagger. Nice keris Additional information: Material: Bronze & Metal, Wood / Bamboo Region of Origin: India/Indonesia Period: 19th century...
Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Arms, Armor and Weapons

Materials

Bronze

English Renaissance Style Wood and Iron Blade
Located in Queens, NY
English Renaissance-style spear with wooden shaft and simple 15-inch leaf-shaped iron blade.
Category

20th Century English Northern Renaissance Arms, Armor and Weapons

Materials

Iron

Large Antique Indonesian Kris Dagger – Ethnographic collectible weapons
Located in London, GB
Large Antique Indonesian Kris Dagger – Ethnographic collectible weapons A striking and authentic large antique Indonesian Kris (keris) dagger, dating to the early 20th century. This traditional Southeast Asian weapon features a dramatic curved zigzag (luk) blade, expertly forged and finely detailed, symbolizing power and spiritual energy. The blade is paired with a carved Horn hilt and shaped wooden sheath, showcasing classic Indonesian...
Category

Early 20th Century Indonesian Tribal Art

Materials

Wood

Indian Arivalmanai Culinary Cutting Tool
Located in New Orleans, LA
Originating from the Kerala region of Southern India, this 19th century arivalmanai, or culinary cutting instrument, is a traditional tool used in the preparation of vegetables throughout India. Comprising an engraved steel blade mounted upon a carved wood base, the user would place their weight on the wooden base by either sitting or kneeling, and prepare their ingredients accordingly. The craftsmanship and size of this fascinating relic denotes its usage in a Hindu temple setting, as offering food to the deities is believed to direct the mind towards spirituality. Food plays an important role in Hindu worship, and because of the veneration of the cow and belief in non-violence, most followers follow a vegetarian diet. The vast majority of Hindu religious...
Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Other Butcher Blocks

Materials

Steel

16th Century, Spanish Wrought Iron Handle
Located in Marbella, ES
16th Century Spanish wrought iron handle.
Category

Antique 16th Century Spanish Paperweights

Materials

Wrought Iron