An 18th century Spanish silver-gilt double-sided saw

An 18th century Spanish silver-gilt double-sided saw,

possibly Catalan, late 18th century,

the baluster shaped ends with foliate scroll decoration, the rope-work handle with a frog finial, inscribed 'Schiso Siendo Maioxdomo. D:b Antonio Radxi.sy Poxtillo. Ano de 1772', length 17.8cm, approx. weight 3.5oz.

Provenance: Christie's London, Important Silver, The Property of a European Collector, 5 July 2005, lot 15.

Sotheby's London, 17 May 1973, lot 85. The saw is possibly a badge of office for an officer or warden in the Guild of Carpenters and symbolises the wardenship of Don Antonio Rodri Portillo in 1772.