DAGGER

Two fragments of a post medieval dagger, dating to c. 1500-1600.

The two fragments comprise the pommel and part of the dagger handle. The pommel is circular in plan, and is formed in a floral shape comprising nine petals around a central circular design. It is concave beneath this upper disc, and would have been attached to the dagger handle, wrapping around the outer perimeter of the handle. The surviving fragment of the dagger handle demonstrates this positioning clearly, with a narrowed central core extending beyond the wider outer layer which the pommel would once have been attached to, creating a smooth outer transition between pommel and handle. The handle itself is cylindrical in shape, tapering slightly towards where the blade would have begun. It is damaged and flaking, dark brown in colour with patches of brighter iron decay. The pommel is in better condition, and is a greenish-brown colour due to copper alloy patinisation.

NLM-9A9CC5 is a similar example of a pommel, with a moulded floral design, and NLM-3ACB59 is a further similar example, but designed for a smaller knife rather than a larger dagger. Both objects are dated to the 16th century.

Measurements:

Pommel dimensions: 29.7mm in diameter, 17.7mm in height, 10.1mm thick, weight 23.1g

Handle dimensions: 82.5mm length, 25.2mm diameter, weight 29.3g