Handle
Handle
Object name: Handle
Date: 1600-1699
Dimensions:
90 x 10 mm
Medium: Ivory
Where depicted:Holland
Object number: TN01069
DescriptionKnife handle with four carved female figures holding various symbols. There are another 4 female heads carved above them, one of which is missing. The symbols represent Virtues: Faith holds a cross and a Bible; Hope holds an anchor; Love carries a lute; and Charity carries a purse.
The theme of the Virtues personified was popular for carved knife handles in the 17th century and there are examples from across Western Europe. There are two similar Dutch examples from the late 17th century, one at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore and one at the V&A that help date this object.
The theme of the Virtues personified was popular for carved knife handles in the 17th century and there are examples from across Western Europe. There are two similar Dutch examples from the late 17th century, one at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore and one at the V&A that help date this object.