TLINGIT DOUBLE ENDED DAGGER AND SHEATH

Alan Winston, New York

Trotta-Bono, Shrub Oak, acquired from the above

George Terasaki, New York, acquired from the above

Daggers in this form have been made over a very long period of time, as evidenced by archaeological discoveries of great age. The short point at the pommel end of the weapon was designed to act as a compliment to the main blade, increasing the slashing power of the weapon on a backstroke. The beautifully forged and finished steel work in this dagger has been embellished with copper overlay about the grip area. The long leather thong on the dagger was made to wrap about the user’s hand to prevent dropping the weapon in combat. Few of these daggers still retain their leather sheaths, though this one does, and it is a fine example of the simple utilitarian style of holder that was common to most old Tlingit daggers.

Steven C. Brown