Engraving Anyone? – Some Examples

Here are three of Steve R. Johnson's "The African Big Five" from the mid '80s
engraved by tha amazing Firmo Fracassi (Italy).
From the collection of Dave Ellis (USA).

This is part of a series of five Classic Hunters made by S.R. Johnson with
stainless steel blades, bolsters and pins. Bark ivory scales show all of the
battle scars and weathered surfaces, truly accentuating this one of a kind
set. Bolsters engraved by Firmo Fracassi (Italy). One side with a full
study of the animal, the other with a close-up study. Even the pins are
engraved with details of the settings. Blades on all knives are 3 1/2"
(89 mm), and overall length is 8" (203 mm).
Dave Ellis adds: "I have been able to acquire only three of these masterpieces,
the elephant is #1 of 5, the lion #2 of 5 and the water buffalo is #5 of 5. I hope to acquire
the other two pieces, the leopard and the rhinoceros".

All the best,
David Darom (ddd)

From my book "The Great Collections"
picture.JPG
 
Great thread and some great engraving. For anyone that may be interested in owning a book that showcases the talents of one of the great Italian engravers, take a look on Amazon.com for 'Gianfranco Pedersoli Master Engraver'. His work rivals the best and his artwork is absolutely amazing. The book is very well done as well.

Peter
 
Update, I now own four of the five SR/FRacassi's, a good friend owns the fifth and I am confident he will sell it to me one day to complete the five.
Thanks for posting them David

Dave Ellis
 
Does this mean, Dave, that I will have to redo that page from your section
in the book?? :) :)

All the best,
David Darom (ddd)
 
I still like the Fabbris set better though, but this is really nitpicking at this point. Did anyone notice that Knifeart has 3 Kressler / Fabbri knives? They're of a different design, and much less fancy to boot.
 
I had noticed the set in DDD's 'Great Collections'. Firmo Fracassi is about as good as it gets. Amazing detail and realism.

Peter
 
Chuck,

The engraving on the Busfield is by Sam Alfano. Some of his leaf shapes are dead giveaways if you are accustomed to seeing his work. There isn't much out there on the market. Most seems to be tucked away in safes.
 
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