Description: Bowie knife (length of blade= 8.5") horn handle with silver mounts. Made by knife maker Nathaniel York in the Sheffield region of England. Knife handle has leaf etching on both sides of pommel cap, 2.5" hand-guard. Leather sheath is died red,with a gilt, saw-tooth design.

History: Nathaniel York was a knife maker in the Sheffield region of England. He was active during the late 19th century and was known for quality blades with acid etching. Nathaniel York's knives were known for holding a sharp edge for a long period of time. He was constantly testing out new methods of design. The Bowie knife was originally designed to fill the need for a wearable, convenient close combat weapon - a short sword much shorter than the saber or other swords of the day, yet still possessing a heavy blade. This cleaver-like blade had enough weight to give the blade sufficient force in a slashing attack, while permitting the use of cut-and-thrust sword fighting tactics. The 'Bowie knife' was already being carried by Spanish sailors of he 1820's, some were folding knives and all lacked the heavy thicker blade and lacked the clip point that Bowie added, making the knife forever synonymous with his name.

Provenance: N/A

Dimensions: Weight (Pounds & Ounces) = 0.5 | Height(in) = 13.25 | Width(in) = 2.5 | Depth(in) = 1.5

Size of Artwork(in): 13.25 x 2.5 x 1.5"

Artist Name: Nathaniel York

Medium: Steel

Circa: C. 1880

Upon inspection knife is in good condition, no pitting or rust. Slightly tarnished and minor scratches to pommel cap.