Antique 14-Inch English Try Square c. 1860-1890 | Victorian Woodworking Tool with Cross-Shaped Brass Inlay

For the craftsman … a substantial 14-inch English try square dating to roughly 1860–1890, made with an ebonized hardwood stock, steel blade, brass wear plate, and a decorative cross-form brass inlay at the joint. The stock is stamped with the original owner’s name, “F. WISDOM” along the edge.  Still a practical tool more than a century later, the square would be equally suited as a handsome display piece in a gentleman’s study, library, or workshop.

Try squares have long been essential to joiners and cabinetmakers, used to check and strike accurate 90-degree angles on casework, frames, and drawer components. Our example features a cross-shaped brass inlay—sometimes called a Gothic or quatrefoil escutcheon—strongly associated with English work between about 1850 and 1890. The inlay reinforces the blade tang at the joint and adds a distinctly Victorian note. The full-length brass wear plate protects the reference edge from wear, and the shallow finger recess carved into the stock improves grip and control in the hand.

Dimensions: (Blade) 14” x 2-5/8” (Stock) 7-3/4” X 1-15/16” X 3/4"
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.

Condition notes: Very good antique condition overall with expected, age-appropriate surface wear. Ebonized hardwood stock retains a deep patina with scattered handling marks, small dents, and light edge wear consistent with workshop use. Owner’s stamp “F. WISDOM” remains clearly legible along the edge. Brass wear plate is seated tightly along the working edge with no lifting or separation, showing light surface wear but no bends or distortion. Decorative cross-shaped brass inlay at the joint is fully intact and secure, with no losses or movement. Steel blade is straight and firmly fitted to the stock, showing light surface marks from use but no active rust, heavy pitting, or structural issues. All joints between blade, stock, and brass fittings are solid with no looseness or play. Tool has been gently cleaned and waxed. Other items in photos not included.

Note: due to size, item will not be gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.