Ivory-Handled Clam-Shell Bowie for Fisk Micro-Show

you mean you don't know?:rolleyes:
 
well, I don't know either.
 
Kyle,

Glad you like it. I've done a number of smooth "spoon-guards", and a damascus clam-shell with the "ridges" ladder-forged rather than filed, but this is the first standard one.

John
 
I just did a tiny bit of research on clamshell hilt designs, and found that the concept goes quite a ways back and especially with european sword designs. I'd expect it found its way to bowies like many other sword design elements, as bowies were sort of like mini swords, (with utilitarian and martial purposes in mind).
Initially, the clam shape would have formed part of the basket which protects the sword hand.
So, it's like a literal translation of an historical interpretation of a shape found in nature, used for a practical purpose. On a bowie, perhaps it's more of an homage to the martial roots of the design, and an opportunity to express an Artistic vision by borrowing from history. Maybe. It's funny how often clams are represented in Art, especially during the renaissance.
 
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As a follow-up to Lorien's post above, thought I would share some examples of how the clamshell motif was utilized on early European Hunting Sword guards.

Also interesting, notice the knife & fork set housed in the top of the sheath in the third one.

plate-13H-14H-15H-16H_-1.jpg
 
I totally love Bowies AND, you have been able to fashion one with incredably good line --- clean and flowing. Congrats on doing such a fine commission.
 
From what I have seen so far there's going to be spectacular knives at Jerry's Show in October. John's Bowie is certainly an example of this.

I usually start a thread here a few weeks in advance of the show to highlight all the knives.
 
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