An extraordinary example undoubtedly produced for Civil War Confederate service. Large Arkansas Toothpick form which some classify as a form of the Bowie Knife, with 8 1/8” spear point blade. Tool finished over large fighting guard with spade terminals. Very fine carved bone grip with iron base ferrule and inset iron pommel cape with extension below, inlaid into a chip. Clearly a one of a kind example evidently made under the pressure of war. The grip probably earlier, taken from a carving knife and adapted here with the iron top plates. The blade is blacksmith made and includes lamination and shallow depressions from rough forging before tool finishing. The root struck with two maker’s marks. An impressive knife that tells the story of its production with limited resources while facing the specter of war.
