Knife with Sheath, Belt and Chopsticks
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Steel, leather, brass, copper, wood, ivory, coral
Dimensions
Knife (a); L. with sheath 10 3/8 in. (26.4 cm); L. without sheath 7 7/16 in. (18.9 cm); W. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm); Wt. 2.6 oz. (73.7 g); sheath (b) with belt; Wt. 1 lb. 6.4 oz. (635 g); chopsticks (c, d); L. 6 1/8 in. (15.6 cm); W. 1/4 in. (0.6 cm); Wt. 0.3 oz. (8.5 g)
Classification
Knives
Culture
Tibetan
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.1007a–d
Art Historical Context
This exquisite Tibetan *Knife with Sheath, Belt, and Chopsticks* from the 18th–19th century exemplifies the masterful craftsmanship of Himalayan artisans. Crafted from steel for the sharp blade, with a sheath and belt adorned in leather, brass, copper, wood, ivory, and coral, it measures about 10 inches long with its sheath. The inclusion of slender wooden chopsticks (6 inches long) transforms this into a multifunctional personal kit, blending utility with subtle luxury—ivory and coral hint at the status of its owner. In Tibetan culture, such knives were essential accessories for men, worn da...