British Mahogany Cased Surgical Field Kit by John Weiss

circa 1830-1850, mahogany and brass campaign case, inlaid cartouche with engraved presentation to Arthur M. Kenna, opens to a crimson velvet interior, fitted with surgical instruments having steel blades with vulcanite handles, stamped with mark of Weiss / London, amputation saw handle marked "RAZOR MAKER TO HIS MAJESTY/ J. Weiss London. 62 Strand.
Case 3 3/4 x 15 1/4 x 8 in.; saw 13 1/4 in.; longest knife 12 5/8 in.
Born in Rostock, Germany in 1773, Johann Daniel Weiss was a third generation cutler. Weiss established the John Weiss cutlery company at 42 Strand, London, in 1787 and moved into the field of surgical instruments. He is credited with the invention of a particular amputation saw. Between 1811 and 1822, they were at 33 Strand, and listed in trade directories as a maker of surgeon's instruments and razors. By 1823, they published their first catalogue, and were at 62 Strand. In 1826, Weiss was recommended as an Honorary Freeman of Rostock, Germany, and designated 'Razor Maker to the King' under William lV (1765-1837), supplying officers in the British Army. In 1830 the company is found listed as John Weiss & Son at 62 Strand, when John's son, Frederick Foveaux, joined the firm around this time (and taking over after his father's death in 1843). In 1883 John Weiss & Sons was listed at 62 Strand and 287 Oxford Street. In 1889-1894, J. Weiss & Sons was listed at 287 Oxford Street.

Weiss & Son exhibited their instruments at the Great Exhibition of 1851, and the company won a Prize Medal at the exhibition. Weiss also exhibited at the 1862 International Exhibition, and their fame was such that they are mentioned by name in the Sherlock Holmes novel The Adventure of Silver Blaze.
From the Collection of Richard M. Griffin, M.D., North Carolina
Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com

Some scratches and rubbing to case and wear to velvet interior; case lacking key; several instruments missing from set; some hairlines and small chips to handles; saw blade with some rust spotting, denting near tip.