Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post - An unusual African knife was a big surprise at auction

Tim Simmons · 9th February 2024, 10:42 AM

Hi Ian ,

I am not sure what it is however I now think it is not Rhino. Wood or bovine horn. I am starting to think it is even not that old, rather heavy file marks and no patina or attempts at a fine surface. Surely Rhino horn is prestige material and I would expect to see that in the finish. The blade does not look particularly old. Might be one of those occasions when bidding gets out of control.

9th February 2024, 10:42 AM	#4
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,741	Hi Ian , I am not sure what it is however I now think it is not Rhino. Wood or bovine horn. I am starting to think it is even not that old, rather heavy file marks and no patina or attempts at a fine surface. Surely Rhino horn is prestige material and I would expect to see that in the finish. The blade does not look particularly old. Might be one of those occasions when bidding gets out of control.