Can anyone tell me what this is?

[Macca81]

Found this at an auction house today. Initially thought it was a draw knife, untill i got close enough to have a look. The edge is on the convex side of the blade, making me think that you would push away from you? Then i thought it was like one of those rocker knives that seemed to be a fad for the home cook a few years ago, but the age of it suggests it was made some time before this fad. There are no distinguishing marks visible. Can anyone offer a use/name?

 

[JayGoliath]

Looks like a big Ulu to me.

 

[DShiflet]

Then i thought it was like one of those rocker knives that seemed to be a fad for the home cook a few years ago, but the age of it suggests it was made some time before this fad. Can anyone offer a use/name and a possible asking price?

1)It's a mezzaluna. That is indeed one of those "rocker knives", and they've existed since the 18th century, they did not originate with that "fad".
2)It's used for cooking/food prep. They are most useful for things like large bunches of leafy herbs (they are often sold as herb choppers) or a pile of nuts to be chopped. It can be useful for someone with arthritis(an actual quote:"It's an absolute lifesaver being able to push down with the strength of both hands instead of relying on a weakened arm with a wrist that doesn't bend attached to a clawed hand that cannot grip a knife the right way.") or other hand problems, who can no longer properly use a single handed chef's knife.
3)Only gold members are allowed to ask for prices on these forums.

 

[Macca81]

1)It's a mezzaluna.

Cheers!