Vintage 8 1/4" smoothing or coffin plane.
Alexander Mathieson & Son, Glasgow, Scotland.
19th Century
Width 8 1/4" (210cm)
Height 5 1/2" (14cm)
Depth 3" (7.5cm)
The shortest of the bench planes, until the end of the 19th century, smoothing planes were predominantly wooden, typically made out of beech.
Being smaller than other bench planes, it is better to work on smaller workpieces and around obstructions. Since the 1700s wooden smoothing planes have predominantly been 'coffin shaped' – wider in the middle and slightly rounded. It has been claimed this shape exposes more end grain, enabling the plane to better adjust to changes in humidity. In Britain the name smoothing plane dates back to at least the 17th century.
Alexander Mathieson & Sons was one of the leading makers of hand tools in Scotland. Its success running parallel with the growth of the shipbuilding industries and the emergence of Glasgow as the "second city of the Empire". The firm's ability to respond to an unprecedented demand for quality tools by industry, both locally and further afield, contributed greatly to it's growth.
The body is in good used condition with the usual aged related wear. The sole is gouged and would benefit from resurfacing, but shouldn't impede it's use. The heel is stamped 2 1/4. The blade and iron have been left to be sharpened by the new owner. All items have been lightly cleaned and oiled with raw linseed oil, to keep the original patina.
All items where appropriate will be sent well packaged, tracked and insured.
Where possible we will combine purchases for shipping. Total weigh approx. 1.1Kg.
