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

For the builder … a 14-inch English try square dating to approximately 1860-1890, constructed with an ebonized hardwood stock, steel blade, full-length brass wear plate, and a four-lobed cross-form brass inlay secured with visible pins at the joint. The stock retains its original dark finish and honest surface wear consistent with workshop use.  Still a practical tool more than a century later, the square would serve equally well on the craftsman’s bench or as a display piece in a study or library.

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. This example features a cross-shaped brass inlay—sometimes called a Gothic or quatrefoil escutcheon—strongly associated with English work between about 1850 and 1890, reinforcing the blade tang at the joint while securing it firmly within the stock. 

Dimensions: (Blade) 14” x 2-5/8” (Stock) 7-3/4” X 2” 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 consistent dark finish with scattered handling marks, including a few pronounced dents, including one adjacent to the brass inlay on one face and one at the lower end of the stock; none affect structural integrity or stability at the joint. Full-length brass wear plate remains tightly seated along the working edge with no lifting or separation, showing surface wear and light scratching consistent with use. Cross-form brass inlay at the joint is complete and secure, with visible surface wear, light pitting, and peppering but no losses or movement. Steel blade is straight and firmly fixed within the stock, showing light surface marks and age toning but no active rust, heavy pitting, or looseness. All joints remain solid with no play. Tool has been lightly 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.

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