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18th Century Butcher's Iron Knife Sharpening Tool

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:100.00 - 200.00 USD
18th Century Butcher's Iron Knife Sharpening Tool
Offered in this lot is this 18th Century Butcher's Iron Knife Sharpening Tool With Belt Loop and Chain, Afghanistan. Provenance: the Owen D. Mort, Jr. Collection. Owen David Mort was an American engineer who amassed an impressive collection throughout his worldwide travels. His collection has included art, artifacts and other historical items from which he has donated to museums at the University of Utah and the Snite Museum of Art at the University of Notre Dame, including Afghan artifacts. The sharpener is intricately inscribed on the front face as well as the heel, the shaft has five "sections" separated by double rings. The belt loop also has delicate incised designs. A weldless lock link style chain is attached to the belt loop. The foot of the sharpener appears to be shaped like a mallet pounder or tenderizer, used to break down tough muscle fibers, and for meat to be flattened, allowing it to cook more evenly. A very interesting piece three centuries old and appears still functional for how it was designed. Scratches and pitting observed as would be expected for a piece of this age. Patination noted throughout. Measures 9"L without belt loop and chain, 25"L total length. Weight 10oz.