Antique Victorian Folding Buttonhook – Sterling Silver & Mother of Pearl – William Needham – Sheffield, 1891 An elegant and beautifully preserved Victorian folding buttonhook, crafted in England in 1891, featuring a genuine mother-of-pearl handle and a sterling silver hook. This charming antique accessory was traditionally used by ladies to fasten the small, tightly spaced buttons on fashionable Victorian ankle boots and high-button shoes. The specially shaped hook was inserted through the buttonhole to catch the button and gently pull it into place. Design & Craftsmanship The handle is made from beautifully iridescent mother of pearl, displaying delicate natural shades of ivory, cream and pale green. A small oval silver cartouche is elegantly engraved with the name “May”, most likely referring to its original owner. The folding mechanism allows the silver hook to be neatly concealed inside the handle, making this a practical and refined travelling accessory. Hallmarks & Origin The silver hook bears English hallmarks: Maker: William Needham (WN) Silver purity: Sterling silver, 925/1000 Assay office: Sheffield, England Date letter: Y – 1891 Period: Late Victorian, 19th century Dimensions & Weight Length opened: approximately 9 cm Length closed: approximately 5.5 cm Width: approximately 1 cm Thickness: approximately 0.4 cm Total weight: approximately 12 grams Condition In very good antique condition, with minor signs of age and use consistent with its approximately 135 years of history. The mother-of-pearl handle is beautifully preserved, and the folding mechanism remains intact. Please carefully examine the photographs, which form an integral part of the description. A charming and authentic piece of Victorian fashion history, combining fine English silversmithing, natural mother of pearl and the elegance of 19th-century personal accessories. An attractive collector's item, particularly suitable for enthusiasts of antique silver, Victorian fashion accessories and historical sewing and dressing implements. Catawiki or Bpost shipping tracking system, insured. #Exclusiveselection