Medieval Iron Hand-forged fire striker / fire steel - 9.5 cm

This is a hand-forged medieval fire striker (also known as fire steel), dating from the 11th to 14th century. This is a tool that was used from antiquity into the Middle Ages to make fire. Dimensions: 9.5 x 4.5 x 0.6 cm Weight: 33.12 grams Condition: intact - conserved When the straight, hardened steel face is struck with a quick downward motion against a sharp flint, the stone microscopically loosens tiny iron particles. Through friction these particles ignite directly in the air and form hot sparks. These sparks are caught with tinder (such as char cloth or tinder fungus) to create a glowing ember. This specific model with the gracefully curved, slender ends (curling tips) is based on traditional early medieval and Viking designs. The loops at the ends serve not only as decoration, but also ensure you can hold the fire striker comfortably and securely with your fingers without injuring yourself while striking. Shipping method: this lot is excellently packaged and shipped via DHL or UPS using Catawiki's Smart Shipping

Estimate:£230.33

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