Paper Knife
c. 1850 (made)
Place of origin |
Although agate is a tough and durable material, when it is worked to a fine edge or thickness it is vulnerable to damage when subjected to stress or impact. This paper knife was produced in Ahmedabad in Gujarat State, India in the mid- to late 19th century and the city continues to be a major gem cutting and trade centre.
Object details
Categories | |
Object type | |
Materials and techniques | Agate, cut and polished using abrasives |
Brief description | Paper knife, rounded tip, integral handle, orangey brown agate, polished, Ahmedabad India, 19th century |
Physical description | A paper knife with a rounded tip and an integral, shaped handle with 2 engraved channels. Fashioned in beige agate with orangey brown patches and polished. |
Dimensions |
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Object history | This paper knife was made in Ahmedabad in the mid-19th century. It was formerly in The India Museum in London and then transferred to the South Kensington Museum (later renamed The Victoria & Albert Museum) in 1879. 1880 Register Entry: [Room 8. Case .] '01,397 to 01,401. PAPER KNIVES, five. Agate.' (No slip numbers given.) |
Summary | Although agate is a tough and durable material, when it is worked to a fine edge or thickness it is vulnerable to damage when subjected to stress or impact. This paper knife was produced in Ahmedabad in Gujarat State, India in the mid- to late 19th century and the city continues to be a major gem cutting and trade centre. |
Collection | |
Accession number | 01398(IS) |
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Record created | June 25, 2009 |
Record URL |
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