I came across the following item while searching for images via google:

http://www.spiral.org.uk/acatalog/Spiral_Virt...ts_96.html

"Medieval Knife with Bone Handle Ref: MEDKNIF01
A very unusual find, this medieval knife, from circa 14-1500 AD, has its original bone handle!

Undoubtedly used at a medieval dining table.

22cm length."


You have to scroll down almost to the end of the page.

I have no desire to buy the knife.

I was just curious if anyone know's if there are any similar medieval knives in museums or published in books with an eared handle?

The handle reminds me of an eared dagger handle in a way.

The handle is very well preserved provided of course it is authentic.

I'm guessing this type of knife would be a standard utility / eating knife.

Any thoughts / opinions about the knife?

I only have one book dedicated to daggers / knives (Daggers and Fighting Knives of the.... by Harold L. Peterson).

Thanks

Danny

PS - I just found this website with a bunch of links to authentic historical knives, thought you guys might enjoy it:

http://larsdatter.com/cutlery.htm

Hi,

I am not familiar with any western eating knives that are similar, but it definitely has eastern dagger overtones to the style which is outside my knowledge base.

As a word of caution though, they have a rather nicely preserved rondel on there that they regard as likely being a pagan ceremonial knife, so I would take any details they give with a pinch of salt.

Tod

Hi,
My personal opinion is that it looks awfully like 19/20th Century, most likely from the Balkans.
Regards,
Norman.

Hi Danny!

What that knife is, is a middle eastern Bishaq knife, probably from Turkey (I have one very similar). Kind of the equivalent to an everyday wear knife for personal defense and utility. Oh, and I paid only 30 bucks for mine on eBay. ;)

Christopher, thanks for the post.

Now that you mention it the knife does look like a Bishaq.

I have a bunch of pics of Bishaq knives from Hermann Historica and Oriental-arms.com where its spelt Bichaq or Bicak.

The best book to buy on medieval knives is "Knives and Scabbards (Medieval Finds from Excavations in London) by J. Cowgill, M. de Neergaard & N. Griffiths" correct?

Any other good books on medieval / ancient knives - roman, celtic, viking, chinese, bronze age etc (English language)?

Also "Knives and Scabbards" is out of print correct, but I'm sure I read on another post that it maybe republished? Anyone know anything about this?

Thanks

Danny

I think quite a lot of the merchandise on that site looks "suspect".