Preliminary identification

Anton Wingen Jr. 'Othello' Stag Horn Carving Set, c.1950s

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a magnificent three-piece mid-century carving set consisting of a carving knife, fork, and sharpening steel, all featuring genuine stag horn handles.

Story

Manufactured in Solingen, Germany's historic 'City of Blades,' this set represents the peak of post-WWII European hunting-style tableware. The etched stag on the blade connects directly to the Black Forest hunting traditions that inspired its design.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1888, the workshop of Anton Wingen Jr. became world-renowned for its high-quality cutlery, pocket knives, and hunting daggers, often stamped with their signature 'Othello' bust logo.

Condition & Value

The set appears to be in excellent vintage condition. The stag horn handles show beautiful natural coloration with no visible cracks, the metal guards are bright, and the critical colored etching on the knife blade is highly preserved.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.