Unusual Handmade Folding Wood Traveling Bootjack Dated 1795

Unusual Handmade Folding Wood Traveling Bootjack Dated 1795 – This is the most unique bootjack we have encountered; it is handmade of hardwood and made so that the owner could fold it in half to stow, unobtrusively, during a trip. The bootjack is made in two halves that pivot on an iron pin that is driven into the hinge-like juncture between the two halves. Written in pencil, near the pivoting hinge, on one half of the bootjack is the following:

“William Watson

1795”

Along the side of the same half of the bootjack is written in ink:

“W ? F. Watson”

Areas of the bootjack evidence hand carving; the back of one half exhibits some narrow burn marks. This is a most unique, folk art, personal item.

Measurements: Folded: L – 7.5”; W – 3.5”

Fully open: L – 12.5“; W – 3.5“