These big block-head putters made famous by Jean Gassiat were
introduced around 1913 and made at various times by various makers during the
ensuring years. They are often called grand piano putters because they
are big & heavy (for a golf club) made out of wood, and their
rectangular shape is reminiscent of many 19th-century pianos there were
also rectangular in shape.
This Gassiat putter is unmarked. The thick brass plate on the sole is held in place by
seven screws and provides protection to the leading edge of the putter, with four large lead weights directly
behind it.
The club head is solid, with a clean face. The finish has been reworked and has a recent coat of varnish that gives the club its shine. It has its original shaft and built-up top of
the grip, which is described in an October 31, 1913 Golf Illustrated review
as an "extra thickness at the top for the use of the left hand." A
quick inspection reveals how the grip was made by using a second piece
of wood. This grip is one of the first "pistol grips" produced in the
world of golf. Original shaft measures 34."
Gassiat putters are quite visual, popular collectibles that are also fun to use when putting off the carpet!
TCA2 v2 p537
The gutty ball shown for perspective is not part of this lot.