Chinese Fisherman's Knife

Long, slim curve of red-brown ending in a golden needle point.

This fisherman's knife is from Dongbei or Shan Xi Province, China, and dates to the 19th century. It is iron, wood & horn. Working knives are generally plain in design, with a single edge, a sturdy tang and a grip that stays secure when it is wet. Gently bowed form in red-brown, tapering to a bright yellow metal tip. The upper end carries small rivets, a dark fitting and a twisted tan cord looped through a ring, with a gentle gloss overall. It is 16.25 inches wide and 1.5 deep.

Delicate, pointed and clearly meant to be handled with care.