Expert: Irene Schwall - 5/6/2010

Question
QUESTION: I was wondering if you got the image i sent of the sewing pencil i had asked about.  Thanks. If not I can send it to you again.

ANSWER: Hello Tyler,
Please resend the image - I did not receive it.
Thanks.
Irene

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am tryin gto resend the image now of the pencil now.  Thanks

Answer
Hello Tyler,
Ah -- a photo is always helpful.
Contrary to what I stated before and having now seen the photograph of your pencil, what you actually have is a vest pocket or sheathed pencil designed for a flat cedar pencil insert. The information below was confirmed with a collector who is a pencil expert:

These type of pencils were popular from 1880 to 1920 and this one was made in London by Sampson Mordan & Co. A similar example can be found on P. 142 of Crosby's "Victorian Pencils" made in 1904.  The S Mordan Co. would often collaborate in the creating of new pencils with inventors and other designers giving them credit in the makers mark. This is most likely why the stamp reads "SM & K" rather than "S M & Co.".  It was rumored that the arrow was the "Mordan Arrow" although mostly found on Mabie Todd pencils.


I hope this helps.
Regards,
Irene