I have now taken some time to look at the printing on the bobbin and comparing the lettering with other identified makers (Springett)
1. I am as near certain as i can be using photographs on ebay that none of the Springett makers did that lettering. 2. I have followed up the comments of the seller regarding the alternative colouring of the lettering ( not visible in my ebay page) He says â Maybe another clue to its maker would be the unusual colouring of the words which alternate with green and blue instead of blue / red or red / black. Green lettering is not unknown, Joseph Haskins is the most probable user of green in his lettering and the lettering style on this bobbin does not match in any way his know lettering style. Like wise David Haskins who does also use green from time to time. 3. I am reasonably certain that the bobbin is old and most likely by James Compton (possibly Jesse, but James most likely) 4. I also have to raise the possibility that the grooves at the top and bottom of the shaft could well have been pewter inlaid if it is a James Compton bobbin. This statement has nothing to do with the authenticity of the bobbin, (as opposed to the lettering) just that my further study raised this a possibility, which I doubted in a previous communication. I am very aware of the responsibility i have in being as honest and ethical as i can be in questioning a person who seems undoubtedly to be an authentic and honest seller. This is the best judgement i can make from the pictures on ebay. I have often said that there is no substitute for handling a bobbin, but I have to say that the issue at stake is the lettering and I doubt I would change my mind even if i had the opportunity to handle it. In summary I think the buyer would get a bobbin made by one of the Compton's, most likely James, with an inscription added at some time by someone other than the maker. Just a by the way, there is little doubt that East Devon (Honiton) bobbins were outsourced for decoration, but I have not come across any evidence of this being done by East Midland makers. Brian - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
