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LOT 1685
Medieval Iron Knife Blade Group
14TH-16TH CENTURY A.D.
7 - 16 1/2 in. (3.1 kg total, 18-42 cm).
Comprising hunting, butcher's domestic and other blade types, including examples with serrated blades and sickles. [15, No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired 1990s-early 2000s.
East Anglian private collection.
Cf. Cowgill, J. et al., Knives and Scabbards. Medieval Finds from Excavations in London, London, 1987, figs.57-63, for similar 14th century A.D. examples of knives.
FootnotesAside from the actual cut marks that are observed on animal bones following archaeological excavation, the butchery implements found from the medieval period are of considerable importance. The cut marks seem to indicate a more refined style of butchery with less use of the cleaver for disarticulation and a greater reliance on knives. The defining characteristic of the butchery knives is that they were sharp-edged and likely to have been made in much the same way as the cleavers, i.e. with a steel edge to maintain sharpness.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Medieval Silver Ring with Flower
Circa 15th-16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £59
Composed of a slender round-section hoop and bezel formed as a stylised flower head with recessed cells and central circular plaque. 6.51 grams, 25.10 mm overall, 20.75 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T 1/2, USA 9 3/4, Europe 21.89, Japan 21)
Ex old English collection. London art market, 1980s. -
Medieval Iron Horse Bit Group
14th-16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £98
Comprising bits of various types and sizes, including articulate elements. 2.85 kg total, 21-32.5 cm
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
This kind of iron snaffle bits were commonly used in late Medieval or Renaissance period. The mouth piece was made in two linked sections, to which big rings were attached at the extremities. Reins and bridles were both fastened to the rings. -
Medieval Iron Knife with Bronze Pommel
Circa 1500 A.D.Estimate: £150 - 200 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £80
Comprising a single cutting edge; scale tang with bifacial pommel engraved with stylised flowerheads. 37 grams, 17.5 cm
Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.
