ROMAN SIDE KNIFE, C.100-250 AD

6 1/2” length with wedge section blade with very slightly recurved back. The root (base) squared to mount to a cast, probably figural hilt. The precursor to the scramseax (scramasax) which evolved in the Migration Period following the fall of the Roman Empire, in Viking and Frankish forms. This example is distinguished by the typology of the blade form. Later forms were made with a whittle tang seated directly into a bone or other material grip, without a base expansion or guard and generally, with the blade base angled for purchase in the grip. Very rare and iconic example in excellent preservation. With Plexiglas display stand and certificate of authenticity.