Antique Singer VS2 “Fiddle Base” Treadle Sewing Machine – c. 1891
A truly beautiful piece of 19th-century sewing history, this antique Singer dates to approximately 1891, making it around 135 years old.
This early Singer features the distinctive VS2 “Fiddle Base” design, named for the graceful violin-like shape of the machine's base. The black body is decorated with elaborate gold and multicoloured floral and scrollwork decals, reflecting the extraordinary attention to detail found on Singer machines of this period.
Unlike later Singer machines identified by letter-prefix serial numbers, this example comes from the earlier era of numeric-only Singer serial numbers.
Built during a time when the sewing machine was becoming an indispensable part of the household, these substantial cast-iron machines were designed not only to perform but to last for generations.
This machine could become a striking decorative piece celebrating the history of sewing and textile craftsmanship.
Also included is the wonderful wooden “coffin” cover, designed to sit over the sewing machine when not in use, protecting it from dust while allowing the cabinet to become a beautiful piece of furniture.
It would be particularly beautiful in a sewing room, fashion studio, textile shop, vintage collection, museum display, art gallery, office or home. For a collector or sewing enthusiast, it is a wonderful connection to the early history of Singer.
Style: Singer VS2 “Fiddle Base”
Approximate Date: 1891
Serial Number: 10429518
Construction: Black cast iron
Decoration: Ornate gold and polychrome floral and scroll decals
Configuration: Treadle sewing machine
More than a century after it was made, this remarkable Singer is still here—a beautiful reminder of an era when sewing machines were built to be used, admired and passed from one generation to the next.
Sold as a vintage/antique piece. Age is based on the serial-number information available for the machine.