Engraved and gold-filled automatic knife made and signed "Kious" on the bottom of the ricosso, American circa 1970. The knife is engraved by J. Mason and his name is engraved on the bottom of the frame. The case is beautifully designed and has four antique tortoise shell panels on each side. Surrounding the tortoise are shell engraved and gold inlaid beautiful decorations that also surrounds the front and back of the knife. The double edge blade is made of Damascus steel and has an attractive pattern. The top edge of the blade and case has a grooved out machined pattern. The knife opens automatically when pressing a hidden button on one side of the knife near the front. The blade closes by depressing the raised and engraved release button near the front on top of the case. (KN0015)
Condition: Excellent
Dimensions: Length Closed 5, Length Open 8 5/8", Blade Length 3 3/4"
About the Maker: Veteran knifemaker Joe Kious, maker of high-end folders and long-time Knifemakers’ Guild member, passed away in 2014. A resident of Kerrville, Texas, Kious was a full-time knifemaker who sold his first knife in 1969. He specialized in investment-quality interframes and bolstered folders, some bringing up to as high as $10,000 or more. However, it is his Pocket-Locket models for which he may be best remembered. Featuring elaborate engraving, the folding knives include a small compartment in the handle with a sliding panel that slides back to reveal another engraved scene inside. “Joe was a staunch supporter of the Knifemakers’ Guild and believed in handmade knives,” said knifemaker and fellow Guild member Edmund Davidson. “Joe had a wonderful personality, was very easy to speak with and would tell you anything you wanted to know. He held nothing back and had no secrets. His knives reflected a great deal of thought, craftsmanship and artistry. He was a true master and genuine person. He will be sorely missed. When we lose a man of his caliber, we are all diminished.” (KN0015)
About the Engraver: J. Mason is from Brandon Mississippi and began engraving in 1995. Most of his work is featured on high-end folding knives. He has worked with many of the 20-21 century knife making masters.
