Christopher Gabriel and the Tool Trade in 18th Century London

By Jane and Mark Rees

“The book” of Christopher Gabriel, planemaker and tool seller in London from 1770 until 1809, has fortuitously survived to give those interested in tools and trades a unique insight into a family business in late 18th century London. From this and other sources it has been possible to draw a picture of a small but developing business in an uncommon trade—planemaker and tool seller—and to trace Gabriel’s connections with other toolmakers of the time, both in London and elsewhere. Perhaps the most valuable parts of the Gabriel legacy are the two inventories of his stock that have survived. These inventories, which list his stock in some detail, are reproduced in full in the book with commentary by the authors to aid understanding. Included in this publication is a descriptive review of a group of his products.

92 pages. Illustrated with B&W photos and engravings throughout. 8-1/4 x 10-1/2. Soft cover. $20.00.(1997) ISBN 0904638111

“An extremely fine publication…of use to those interested in any aspect of tools in the 18th century…an excellent companion piece to The Tool Chest of Benjamin Seaton.” —The Chronicle