Description
Rare 18th century antique 46 ½” hand forged French timber framing Bisaigue, stamped whilst being forged by D.Ragot in various locations, indicating no parts have been replaced in its lifetime and is in lovely original condition. This example has a very detailed layered joint at the point of the handle which is not only decorative but also adds extra rigidity and strength to the tool, this was made by a very accomplished blacksmith that for sure.
These are often confused with the much more hazardous Twybill which is much shorter and has a handle, whereby these never did. It was a common joke performed on apprentices to ‘find the handle’ for their Bisaigue as the shaft is socketed and is in fact where they are held by the user. These are used for two functions whereby the bevelled chisel end is used for flattening surfaces and a mortise chisel at the other end. These tools were known to be used as far back as the 16th century and seem to be an adaption of the much earlier twybill which was used as early as the 1st century BC.
We sell collectable and old usable tools that are lightly cleaned before being offered for sale. Used tools are not perfect and may have minor flaws due to wear and tear. Any major defects will be pointed out in the description. All items are sold in an “as is”condition and have not been tested; some reconditioning may be required according to buyer’s standards which can vary wildly. Whilst best reasonable efforts are made to ensure usable items are brought to a good standard, those expecting perfection from a used tools should consider buying new. Items described as ‘Antique’ or ‘Collectable’ are not sold for the purpose of use, if the buyer uses them we regard the item as sold or intends to use them it is their responsibility for additional costs to upgrade. If in doubt please ask as we are more than happy to help.
Prior to selling online we used the web as a buyers for quite some time and although there was a hiccup or two by other sellers we found them all to be helpful when they were made aware, I aim to be the same. Whilst I would like to think i’m perfect my wife would always say I had perfect intentions and was honest enough to hold my hands up when i get it wrong. So if on the rare occasion I do get it wrong it’s not intentional and i will do my utmost to put it right for you.
Postage: As you can appreciate there is a lot of work needed to bring these tools back to life as a result I do get quite dirty when working in the workshop. I do have to allocate a whole day to postage as a different operation because of this so I pack all orders every Monday and order the collection from Hermes which generally takes 1-2 days to collect. So depending on what day you order it will vary the delivery time. please allow 5 – 10 days for delivery for the UK.