Circa 1830s - 1840s early example of a Bowie knife of the American form along with two silver spoons bearing the mark of 'S.BELL'. Consigned together, the previous owner was of the belief that the knife was made by the same man. Although the mark on the knife has long been worn off, this is most likely the early work of Samuel Bell of Knoxville, Tennessee, and later Texas. Overall knife measures 16" with an 11" clip point single edge blade with a 3 - 1/2" false edge. A characteristic and distinctive thickened bolster is forged integral at base of blade where it joins the hilt. German silver mounts on a coffin-shaped handle with two-piece ebony scales held in place with 6 small silver pins. Crossguard of silver that has been crudely repaired. CONDITION: Good. Blade has been heavily sharpened and cleaned, and has been rubbed with cold blue. Some traces of scattered pitting remain, mostly concentrated near the deeply pronounced choil and ricasso. Spoons are very good with clear stamps and jeweler engraved initials of previous owners. Blade Length: 11" Overall Length: 16"