Images(2)

Socket Gouge

Date1770-1820

OriginEngland, Sheffield

MediumIron, steel, and wood

DimensionsOverall: 1 1/8 × 1 15/16 × 15 3/16 in (2.8 × 5 × 38.5cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1987-772

DescriptionLarge socket gouge with a tapering ovoid handle, of typical form. Edge ground towards the bottom (outside of the radius).Label TextThose chisels made to withstand a pounding mounted their handles with a socket, meant to prevent splitting at the lower end. Large gouges like this example, with a cutting edges ground towards the bottom of the blade, were meant to cut deep scooped-out shapes, like the inside of a bowl.Mark(s)"P.LAW" with a crown to the right, struck into the iron portion of the blade. Handle marked "E.A.GREGORY" on both sides. Other partially-struck marks where the socket meets the blade.