Schager knives

Knives were made in Schagen as early as the ^15th and ^16th centuries. The Schagen knife was considered high-quality and was used in everyday life.

In those centuries, everyone brought their own knife. Knives were a personal and valuable possession. Everyone had their own knife back then. Forks weren't yet common, and eating was done with both a knife and a hand. Cutting and piercing was done exclusively with a knife. A knife in a special design (for example, with a silver handle) was often given as a wedding gift or as a prize at sporting events or exhibitions.

Many knives have been lost over time due to heavy use. However, enough of the knives made for decorative purposes, with beautiful silver handles and often encased in a leather sheath, have survived to provide a good impression of the craftsmanship of the time.

During the ^17th and ^18th centuries, the towns around Schagen grew. Prosperity increased, partly due to the flourishing of overseas trade, from which the port cities of Amsterdam, Enkhuizen, and Hoorn profited greatly.

The craftsmen in Schagen were considered among the best knife smiths of the time. They were in high demand and in high demand. In Schagen, there was one street where most knife makers were concentrated: Molenstraat (Molen Street). The street got its name because of all the grinding mills there (to sharpen the knives). In total, dozens of blacksmiths made knives that were sold throughout Europe.

The mark stamped into the blade was a standing stick with a crescent, also known as a boat hook. From around 1640, this mark was used to guarantee the knife's authenticity.

A Schagen knife was also highly sought after in the pub or on the street. People with malicious intent often carried one. "Don't anger that pelvis cutter," was the warning, "or he'll come out with his Schagen."

In the collection of zilverwebsite.nl you will find various Schager knives in different price ranges.