It would be interesting to see several old Bowies together, such as those made by Will & Fink, Samuel Bell, Ames, and Huber - study the differences in these. I will probably never get that opportunity, and i figure most people's only glimpses of these really old knives are seeing the examples in museums. And, their modern counterparts.
Even if i had the chance, i wonder what my eyes would see?-- it takes great patience and study to gain a level of expertise in any field. These old knives are so rare, any interest in these seems like a far-away study in classic architecture or ancient sculpture.
Though i will say, the Huber knife looks like Ed Fowler might have made it, in a previous incarnation!
Harold you asked a good question regarding Ed's place in things. In my book he's right up there with William Scagel. His work is criticised or overlooked by some who have a trendy mindset, "flavor of the month" club. (They usually complain about brass. )
If looking at Ed's knives as individual achievments, they are in my opinion, each one perfect in form, and as creative and varied as any maker alive or dead.
The more i study his knives from stylistic detail, the more i am impressed, variations and proportions are in constant dynamic motion. And there is a evolution happening, a sign that Ed is truly making thoughtful judgements about his design choices. This is true art, in my book.
For just one example look at two "preeminent" makers of the day, Ron Lake and Michael Walker. The knives offer exquisite art, without question. But, in blade design these knives are in great majority "cookie cutters", as if there is no art or engineering to be mastered in the knife edge, or steel itself.
Anyway.. just my opinion, no offense meant to either gentleman..
David
