Tom Curran

This is a real dagger, though it’s only 3 1/4″ long. The blade is hardened high carbon steel. The grip is horn, the guard and pommel are sterling silver. The sheath is formed steel, very thin, silver soldered together. This is a close copy of an 18th Century dagger. Used for self protection or intrigue, the dagger and sword were part of daily dress. The original has a 6″blade.


The sheath has a retainer clip to keep the blade in place when not in use.

Tools are an integral part of what I do; they are extension of my hand, and yes, of my brain. Each and every tool of humankind was created for a specific use. Some tools are quite beautiful, and these are the ones that appeal to me. Some are weapons, while others are simply tools.

Axes are definitely weapons, though their roots go back to simple tools for working wood. I was at the Metropolitan Museum a couple of weeks ago, and saw their collection of Greek and Roman artifacts. In the cases with Greek pottery shards and jewelry I spied some miniature double bitted axes, similar to the one below, hence the inspiration. This axe has a sterling chain and clasp.


This axe represents an American pipe tomahawk, from the 18th Century Colonial period, used for ceremonial purposes. Shown alongside a worn out English George III penny. Linen cord with sterling clasp.

These I made from steel, with wooden handles. They will rust, getting more realistic with time and wear. The handles are Brazilwood, or pernambuco, a wood used for making violin bows and for making a red dye in the 18th Century. The handles are riveted through the axe heads to make a permanent fastening, without the use of any glues or adhesives.

Each axe is approximately 2 1/2″ tall, entirely handcrafted, a one of a kind object.

The edges are not sharp, they are just polished to look that way. T.C.

Photos supplied by Tom Curran.