What are your thoughts on these

[Gavin Nugent]

I was very taken when I saw these pass in an auction recently. Advertised as Ivory daggers from Norway or similar from memory. Approx 8 inches long if I recall and are silver mounted too. Overall very gorgeous pieces.

Sure they could be used as a dagger but to me I think the more resemble fids.

I would be interested to hear any views on these interesting items.

Gav

[Rick]

Spitzbergen scrimshaw possibly ? ;) :)

Freebooter , did you see these in person; are the blades really stout ?
Fids though; with silver embellishments; for small work ?

Could they be some kind of tool for darning, lace or some other 'Ladies work' back at home ?

Nah, either one would look great in a sailor's ditty bag . :D

[Gavin Nugent]

Unfortunately I did not see them first hand but I am sure they are not daggers as described in the auction description but would inflict a nasty puncture if stabbed.

The pic provided is about life size and from the questions I did ask the are round in shape, definately nautical as you expressed, I still think they are a fid of some kind, the tips do look like they would be great for undoing knots and parting ropes but the silver embelishment may indicate a present of some sort???

Has anyone seen any icelandic/scandinavian type ivory daggers before? If in fact they are daggers I'd like to know more?

Gav