Kings Pattern Table Knives by George Butler & Co.
Flatware (Table Knives) · George Butler & Co., Sheffield, England. Founded in 1681, Butler is one of Sheffield's most iconic cutlery manufacturers, known for the 'Art' brand and high-quality edge tools.
Pattern: Kings Pattern. A classic Regency-era design introduced in the early 19th century (c. 1817), characterized by a decorative shell, honeysuckle, and scroll motif. It remains one of the world's most popular silver patterns.
Type
Flatware (Table Knives)
Maker
George Butler & Co., Sheffield, England. Founded in 1681, Butler is one of Sheffield's most iconic cutlery manufacturers, known for the 'Art' brand and high-quality edge tools.
Material
Silver plate (EPNS) handles with stainless steel blades. The blades are etched 'George Butler & Co, Sheffield England' and 'Non-Stain'. The handles are likely hollow-form silver plate.
Dimensions
Approximately 9.5 to 10 inches (24-25 cm) for table knives. Weight is approximately 80-100 grams per knife. Standard dinner or 'table' size.
Description
A set of classic Kings pattern table knives by the venerable Sheffield firm George Butler & Co. These knives embody the grand dining traditions of the 19th century while utilizing mid-20th century durability. The ornate shell-and-scroll handles provide a substantial weight and luxurious feel, paired with functional 'Non-Stain' steel blades designed for easy maintenance.
Key Features
Distinctive George Butler & Co logo on the blade, deep relief of the shell terminal, and the traditional 'scimitar' blade silhouette.
Material & Composition
Silver plate (EPNS) handles with stainless steel blades. The blades are etched 'George Butler & Co, Sheffield England' and 'Non-Stain'. The handles are likely hollow-form silver plate.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with die-struck relief decoration. The pattern features the standard Kings motif: a terminal shell followed by a leafy honeysuckle and scroll shoulders.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The blades are laser-etched or stamped with the George Butler & Co 'Art' logo and 'Sheffield England - Non-Stain'. No visible silver hallmarks on the handles suggests they are high-quality nickel silver electroplate (EPNS).
Construction Details
Hollow-handle construction. The handles are two-part die-stamped shells soldered together, then filled with resin/cement to secure the tang of the 'non-stain' stainless steel blade.
Functional Features
Rounded 'French' or parallel bolster, scimitar-style curve to the blade edge, and rounded tips. The 'Non-Stain' blade indicates 20th-century advancements in rust-resistant metallurgy.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver-plated hollow handles attached via cement to stainless steel tangs. Features the double-sided die-struck Kings pattern with a classic bulbous grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced but high-quality die-striking. The crispness of the shell motif indicates well-maintained steel dies. The blade-to-handle joint appears tight and professionally finished.
Authentication Indicators
Etched maker's mark on the blade is consistent with Butler's 20th-century output. The construction method (hollow handle/cemented tang) is standard for Sheffield production of this period.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sheffield, England. Manufactured in the historical heart of British cutlery production, following traditional Sheffield assembly methods.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (Post-WWII). While the pattern is Regency/Victorian, the 'Non-Stain' etching and manufacturing style indicate a modern production era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The branding style and use of 'Non-Stain' (rather than just 'Stainless') is typical of mid-20th century Sheffield production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'The Great House' style, allowing middle-class households to enjoy the ornate aesthetics of the Regency aristocracy through durable silver plating.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible surface scratches (swirls) from cleaning and use. Minimal 'plate loss' visible, though some tarnish is present in the recessed areas of the pattern.
Value Estimate
$15 - $30 per knife in the secondary antique market. Value is driven by the George Butler brand name and the enduring popularity of the Kings pattern.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only with mild soap; avoid dishwashers as the heat can melt the internal cement and loosen the blades. Polish with a soft cloth and Wright's Silver Cream.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'English King', Gorham 'Chantilly', or other Sheffield makers like Elkington or Mappin & Webb. Distinguishable by the specificity of the shell and the blade etching.
Interesting Facts
The Kings pattern was originally designed for the silversmith Rundell, Bridge & Rundell and is said to have been a favorite of King George IV. George Butler & Co was one of the few firms permitted to use the 'Art' trademark.