Iron knife

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This iron knife was found at the site of the Roman fort of Camelon in Stirlingshire. It could have been used for a number of purposes, including cutting leather. It dates from sometime between 80 and 165 AD.

The knife is very corroded.

People have made widespread use of animal skins in Scotland since the first settlers came here. Leather was cut into pieces using a variety of sharp tools over the ages. Curved knives were preferred, to minimise the risk of damaging the skin.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-037-728-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FX 307 E
• Date: Between 80 and 165 AD
  
• Material: Iron; socket slightly bent inwards at end
  Knife
  
• Dimensions: 135 mm x 30 mm
  
• What: Knife
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Stirlingshire, Falkirk, Camelon
  
• Event:
• Description: Iron knife with a curved edge, from Camelon
  
• References:
• Translations:
• Related Records: