 |
Lot 31. A PRESENTATION YARD RULE presented to "Clara N. Austin" from "Unknown". "Just a basic, Nineteenth Century hickory yardstick", or so it was, until someone, "Unknown", as he billed himself, used it as a means to demonstrate the measure of his devotion to one "Clara N. Austin". We can assume, from the presence of the heart shapes on the inlaid brass plate that this "present" was meant to symbolize more than we will ever know. That this rule was found in the State of Maine, not far from the City of Skowhegan is all that we know for certain. But who were these people? How and when did they live. What became of Clara Austin and her admirer? We will probably never know, but the images that arise from our speculation about these people and this tool that celebrates the intersection of their lives on this earth know no limits save those that can be supplied from seeking out the individuals through historical records and the limits of time that the style of this rule will provide. People, tools, time, and emotions. These are themes that constantly interact in the great drama of history and imagery that is found in every rule, every wrench every plane and every unanswered question that are the fascinating world of antique tool collecting. For those who see only an object here, move on; for those who find, in this simple rule, something wonderful beyond measure, welcome home. A great rule. (GOOD+).(80.00 - 160.00) Length: 36.00 Inches. |
