Knife

This bronze knife was found at Traprain Law in East Lothian. It was a sharp tool, perhaps for cutting leather, used between 950 and 750 BC.

The knife has a square tang, and a stop to hold the handle, which has not survived, in place. It 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:	000-100-039-895-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland X.GVB 11
Date:	Between 950 and 750 BC
Material:	Copper alloy; stops in centre of shank; expanding cutting edge
Dimensions:	3.25" L
What:	Chisel
Subject:
Who:
Where:	Scotland, East Lothian, Traprain Law
Event:
Description:	Copper alloy tanged chisel, from Traprain Law
References:	Burley, Elizabeth. Metal-work from Traprain Law. Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland 89 (1955-1956), 118-226, esp. no. T. 11, p 146.
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