King ArthurKnight with Shield and Sword
Stamped and Pierced Brass
Cut Steels in 4 Sizes
NBS Large
c1880s
King Arthur - Button Back
King ArthurKnight with Shield and SwordStamped and Pierced BrassCut Steel BorderNBS LargeC1880s
King Arthur - Button Back
Two King ArthursStamped and Pierced BrassFancy BordersOne with 4 Sizes of Cut Steels One with Same Size Cut Steels
Two King Arthurs - Button Backs
These two buttons demonstrate how the same button die can result in buttons with similar but varied finishes and embellishment. The design is identical to a button also known as King Arthur featured in an earlier post, that is equally impressive, but without the cut steel border.
One of the things I enjoy about button collecting, is the way each button-- based on the original finish, the actions of aging, and whether someone has polished the button through the years-- develops its own character.
The buttons are made of one piece stamped and pierced brass, with a faceted and riveted cut steel border. The first King Arthur has cut steels in four graduated sizes, and the brass is muted and warm. The second button has a cut steel border with steels all of the same size, with the bright effect of polished brass. Of the two, I enjoy the first button the most, but my favorite of the three, in terms of patina, is the one without cut steels.
King Arthur wears a full suit of armor and a plumed helmet. He grips his sword, Excalibur, and a shield decorated with a six pointed star and a half moon.
Image and Text © 2009 Anne AKA Once Upon A Button
King Arthur
