Knives have been made in Schagen since the 15th and 16th centuries. The Schager knife was seen as high quality and used in everyday life.
In those centuries everyone took their own knife. Knives were a personal and valuable possession. Everyone had their own knife back then. Forks were not yet generally accepted and food was eaten with a knife and hand. Cutting and piercing was done only with the knife. A knife in a special version (for example with a silver handle) was often given as a wedding gift or as a prize during sports competitions or exhibitions.
Many knives have been lost over time due to extensive use. However, enough of the knives that were made for 'ornamental' use, with beautiful silver knife handles and often in a leather sheath, have been preserved to give a good impression of the craftsmanship at the time.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the cities around Schagen grew. Prosperity increased, partly due to the flourishing of overseas trade, from which the port cities of Amsterdam, Enkhuizen and Hoorn fully benefited.
The professionals in Schagen were considered among the best knifesmiths of that time. They were widely used and requested. In Schagen there was one street where most cutlery makers concentrated, namely the Molenstraat. The street got its name because of all the grinding mills that were there (to sharpen the knives). In total, there were dozens of blacksmiths who made knives that were sold throughout Europe.
The feature that was hammered into the blade was a standing stick with a half moon, also known as a boat hook. From around 1640 this mark was used to guarantee the authenticity of the knife.
A Schager knife was also very popular in the pub or on the street. People with evil intentions liked to carry it with them. "Don't make that cymbal grinder angry," was the warning, "otherwise he'll show up with all his teeth."
In the Zilverwebsite.nl collection you will find various Schager knives in different price ranges.
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