JOHNNY ‘KING NERD’ DOWELL MASTER ENGRAVER

Engraving is a fairly niche profession. How did you start on this path?

I’ve always been artistic, but my first loves were drawing, painting and fashion and I studied Art and English at A level in order to get into Central Saint Martins. But just before going to university, I changed paths when my uncle – who worked for British gunmakers James Purdey & Sons – showed me a Purdey catalogue. I was immediately drawn to the intricate engraving showcased in the catalogue and, noticing my interest, my uncle said that the company might be looking for an apprentice engraver. The rest is history. I am honoured to say that I am the only Purdey-trained engraver of the past 15 years.