Bladeless Sgian Dubh retailer / Skean Doo - Black Elkhorn with Rampant Lion middle mount and Celtic top mount

HISTORY OF THE SGIAN DUBH

Initially thought to be used for preparing food, cutting meat, bread, etc., the Sgian Dubh also resembles a small skinning knife. The early Sgian Dubhs were slightly larger than present day, also initially made in brass, occasionally in silver, depending on the status of the wearer.
The Sgian Dubh or “Black Dagger” was traditionally worn hidden, but upon entering a host's dwelling, the main weapons were placed by the door and the Sgian Dubh then taken out and placed in either the left or right hose, depending on the dominant hand. This showed the host that the guest had no intentions of harming him, but that he was nevertheless armed in case of attack from the outside.
In many countries it is considered illegal to wear a Sgian Dubh if not in formal Highland attire.

ABOUT THE PRODUCT

This bladeless Sgian Dubh is cast in polyurethane, and is hand-cleaned, finished, and retailer given a patina by the artist. The mountings are zinc and are antique nickel plated.