spectacular carving for comment

[Timo Nieminen]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Then again, it would be useless as a weapon --- except maybe to wave at the kids stealing my fruit and cause them nightmares.

I don't think that this has greatly impaired its usefulness as a weapon. It still has a point and edge; the thinnest part in the carving is still about as thick as the base of the tang. One could still stab almost as effectively with this as with the pre-worked original.

But this is accidental. It isn't made for use as a weapon. As you said,

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Nope this object is purely and simply a piece of canvas, its purpose is to permit the craftsman to display his skill, which is considerable.

... and whatever function it has as a weapon is a by-product of the artist's choice of medium.