Lot # 42: c. 1878 David Mitchell Long Spoon

Starting Bid: $1,000.00

Bids: 7 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Summer 2021",
which ran from 7/7/2021 12:00 PM to
7/24/2021 8:00 PM



David Mitchell is recorded in the March 9, 1866 issue of the Dundee Advertiser as a clubmaker living in St. Andrews when his wife gave birth to their son. He was most likely working for another clubmaker in the town at that time.  He continued to work in St. Andrews for a few more years. The Fifeshire Journal that he received second prize in the 1871 R&A Autumn meeting clubmakers competition. 

In 1876, Mitchell left St. Andrews to replace Frank Bell as the clubmaker and greenkeeper at Carnoustie. Unfortunately, ill health caused him to step down from those positions in 1881, but he remained at Carnoustie as the clubmaster.  He died in 1883.

Because Mitchell was making and marking clubs with his name for just a 5-year period, between 1876 and 1881, examples of Mitchell's work are few and far between. As the club offered here shows, David Mitchell was a talented clubmaker.

This 41-inch long spoon is a prime example of Mitchell's work.  The grip, shaft, finish, neck whipping—everything is original.  The club shows little use and its rich blond finish is clear and clean, void of any water stains, etc.  The face is gracefully hooked.  The lines of the head are stylish and highly attractive. The club measures 1 1/8" in face depth, 1 3/4" in width, and 5 1/2" in length. 

For someone who likes collecting clubs long nose clubs that are made by rare clubmakers, or in outstanding condition, or are attractive in their styling, this club hits in all three areas. 

This club is fourth from the left in the group shot.

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