A McEWAN LONG-NOSED BAFFING SPOON, CIRCA 1860

Distinctly hooked and lofted probably apple clubhead with rich dark patina



Crown stamped "McEwan"



Ram's horn insert to leading edge of sole



Large lead backweight



Hickory shaft with sheepskin grip

TGC p. 47; TCA p. 49; TCA 2 Vol. 1 p. 47

Overall very good condition, with a minor crack in the back of the head, probably occurring when the molten lead was poured into the clubhead by the maker. Club shows little actual use. Please note that most lots describe a basic overall condition status. Please note that it is the nature of this type of memorabilia to be in excellent or very good condition and still have some age wear. To request individual detailed condition reports, please contact Lisa Ladish or Kevin Schwartz in Sotheby's Collectibles Department.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In 1857 Henry B. Farnie described the baffing spoon, sometimes called "the cutty": "baffing is most probably descriptive of the thump produced in making the stroke. It is employed only for skying a ball over a hazard on to the putting green, when the stroke is too short for any other spoons." The baffing spoon has the shortest shaft of the spoon family and is often just a touch wider and thicker through the head to accomodate the added loft.

This circa 1860 McEwan baffing spoon features a graceful head and sophisticated lines typical of their style.