Presentation Gavel, Two Handles, Marquetry Box
American: 1901
Exotic hardwood
12.25 inches long, 3 inches head, gavel
3.5 inches high, 12.5 inches wide, 6 inches deep, box
Finely made and rare gavel, with two alternative handles, one round, one faceted, each with ring turnings and knop end (a knop is a small decorative knob), alternatively fitting into gavel head, also with ring turnings, bound at ends with gold-plated rings with chased designs. Contained in original marquetry box with inlaid central eight-sided star and pair of vases of flowers in opposite corners, and elaborate border with repeating geometric design. The inside of the box lined with purple silk, having gold-plated presentation plaque in inside lid, and with fittings for gavel head and handle, and with key lock. The gavel was presented as a Christmas gift by members of the “D.G. Com.,” possibly the Democratic General Committee, to the Honorable James F. Downer, “C. Com,” which perhaps stands for Central Committee.
This is likely a uniquely made gavel and box. We know of no other gavel having two alternate handles like this.
Rectangle gold plated presentation plaque in top inside lid: “Presented to the Hon. Jas. F. Downer C. Com./ by/ L.N. Schrofer D.G. Com./ R.R. McLean D.G. Com./ P.A.Kippen D.G. Com./ Dec. 25, 1901.”
