ANCIENT VIKING POUCH KNIFE-NORWAY, 9th-11th CENTURY AD

Just under 5 ½” total length. Broad wedge section blade with down curved back for slashing. Whittle tang, to secure it to the wood, bone, or antler grip, now perished. Isolated pockmarks oxidation mixed with some original surfaces as typical for water finds. These side or pouch knives were among the most treasured possessions for Vikings and it was these, rather than the large seax with which they were buried. They likely had spiritual significance to the owner during his life. A fine weapon, suitable for throat slashing as well as organ depth thrusting attacks. (https://leatherworkingreverend.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/dsc01382.jpg and https://inhabitat.com/melting-glaciers-reveal-items-lost-in-the-stone-age/ for similar examples with original grips). This example was recovered in Norway in the 19th century. Excavated and professionally conserved with Plexiglas display easel and certificate of authenticity.