Dirk

Dirk, the hilt of the dirk consists of straight gilt crosspiece with a fluted knob at each end. The crosspiece is engraved with floral decoration and in the centre of the reverse of the crosspiece with a foul anchor motif. An eagle with wings semi-displayed executed in gilt acts as the pommel. The eagle clutches an oak wreath, which encloses a swastika and its head is turned to look across its right shoulder. A silver braid dirk knot is elaborately tied from the pommel to the guard. The amber-coloured bone grip is spirally bound with gilt wire.

The steel blade is straight, double-edged with two central grooves beginning below the shoulder and extending for 147mm. The engraving on the blade is restricted to a panel the width of the blade and 163mm long. The obverse panel is engraved with foliage; a port-bow view of a sailing ship with topsails furled; a foul anchor and further foliage. The reverse panel is engraved with foliage; a port-bow view of a sailing ship with topsails furled and further foliage. The blade is also engraved with the name 'Solingen' and the maker's mark. The gilded bronze scabbard has a hammered finish with two rings for suspension. The scabbard has bands in lieu of lockets, which are decorated with an oak leaf motif and an engraved ridge at the foot of the band. The top and mid locket bands are 10mm wide.

The original slings are attached and the upper sling is 305mm long and the lower sling is 457mm long. The slings are fitted with oval buckles with a circular plaque at each end bearing a lion's face. The buckles are 69mm long. Gilt spring clips are fitted at each end of the slings and leather loops are incorporated for attaching them to a belt. The slings are made of dark blue cloth lined with dark blue velvet. A steel chain with a hook is fitted to the upper sling presumably to secure the dirk to a greatcoat.

Object Details

ID: WPN1293
Collection: Weapons
Type: Dirk
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Alcoso
Places: Solingen
Date made: 1938-1945
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 248 x 19 mm
Parts: Dirk