From what I’ve been able to gather, everyone called Ismael Laguna Guiluz 'Sir' (Sr.). He was a knife manufacturer from Santa Cruz de Mudela, renowned for his character as a good man and a skilled merchant. His knives were a staple in the tourist shops of Madrid's Plaza Mayor, and he was highly respected for his craftsmanship. Many collectors today adore his simpler works (such as the cabriteras or campaña models) because of how well-executed they are.
However, his pieces with folk motifs—mainly bullfighters—sold exceptionally well among both national and foreign tourists due to the 'naïve' charm of the enamels and engravings produced in his workshop. These products were high quality, with excellent fit and finish, and today they are highly valued as references to that era.
Ismael also produced and commissioned knives for specific trades (electrician, sailor, etc.) from other local workshops. A curious electrician's knife:
By the 1960s, all of this turned his company into one of the most important in the region. This blend of craftsmanship and commerce was not fully appreciated by many until it became a benchmark for collectors in Spain and abroad. Simple and well-made.
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His stamp features a '10' alongside his initials. This was the number of his headquarters, which no longer matches current addresses because the City Council changed the street numbering years ago. It is unclear whether Ismael passed away in 1973 or 1977, but unfortunately, no one continued his legacy. Even today, some 'new old stock' of his work can still be found in shops. I have taken this opportunity to buy this campaña (sodbuster) knife, which reminds me of the one my grandfather carried when I was a child. I love it
However, his pieces with folk motifs—mainly bullfighters—sold exceptionally well among both national and foreign tourists due to the 'naïve' charm of the enamels and engravings produced in his workshop. These products were high quality, with excellent fit and finish, and today they are highly valued as references to that era.
Ismael also produced and commissioned knives for specific trades (electrician, sailor, etc.) from other local workshops. A curious electrician's knife:
By the 1960s, all of this turned his company into one of the most important in the region. This blend of craftsmanship and commerce was not fully appreciated by many until it became a benchmark for collectors in Spain and abroad. Simple and well-made.
His stamp features a '10' alongside his initials. This was the number of his headquarters, which no longer matches current addresses because the City Council changed the street numbering years ago. It is unclear whether Ismael passed away in 1973 or 1977, but unfortunately, no one continued his legacy. Even today, some 'new old stock' of his work can still be found in shops. I have taken this opportunity to buy this campaña (sodbuster) knife, which reminds me of the one my grandfather carried when I was a child. I love it
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.....Thanx for sharing it..
