Working tool Antique - Post Medieval Fid
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Antique bone fid, a single post-medieval rope-splicing tool dating to 1750–1800, measuring 52 mm high, 10 mm wide and 10 mm deep, from the United Kingdom, in good condition with minor signs of aging.
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Description from the seller
This small bone fid is a finely worked tool designed for rope splicing and cordage work. Traditionally used to separate the strands of rope and guide them during splices, fids like this were essential tools in maritime, fishing, and craft trades. Its compact size suggests it was intended for personal use, likely carried on board a ship or kept in a sailor’s tool kit.
The fid is carved from a single piece of bone and has been smoothly finished through use, retaining its functional taper and integrity. The natural patina and slight wear reflect centuries of handling, giving it both character and historical authenticity. While simple in form, it demonstrates practical craftsmanship typical of hand tools from the 17th–19th century.
Specimen Details:
Period: 17th–19th Century AD (c. 1600–1850 AD)
Material: Bone
Dimensions: Approx. 2–2.5 inches long × 0.3–0.5 inches diameter (5–6.5 cm × 0.8–1.3 cm)
Condition: Excellent for age; smooth patina; minor surface wear consistent with centuries of use
Function: Rope splicing and cordage tool (fid)
Comments: A rare example of a small, functional maritime tool; collectible for historians, sailors, and enthusiasts of nautical crafts
Provenance note-
This specimen was previously part of a private collection of artefacts that has been studied, researched and verified by an expert in the Industry with over 25 years experience, as part of his own collection.
Shipped from the UK safely and insured worldwide.
This small bone fid is a finely worked tool designed for rope splicing and cordage work. Traditionally used to separate the strands of rope and guide them during splices, fids like this were essential tools in maritime, fishing, and craft trades. Its compact size suggests it was intended for personal use, likely carried on board a ship or kept in a sailor’s tool kit.
The fid is carved from a single piece of bone and has been smoothly finished through use, retaining its functional taper and integrity. The natural patina and slight wear reflect centuries of handling, giving it both character and historical authenticity. While simple in form, it demonstrates practical craftsmanship typical of hand tools from the 17th–19th century.
Specimen Details:
Period: 17th–19th Century AD (c. 1600–1850 AD)
Material: Bone
Dimensions: Approx. 2–2.5 inches long × 0.3–0.5 inches diameter (5–6.5 cm × 0.8–1.3 cm)
Condition: Excellent for age; smooth patina; minor surface wear consistent with centuries of use
Function: Rope splicing and cordage tool (fid)
Comments: A rare example of a small, functional maritime tool; collectible for historians, sailors, and enthusiasts of nautical crafts
Provenance note-
This specimen was previously part of a private collection of artefacts that has been studied, researched and verified by an expert in the Industry with over 25 years experience, as part of his own collection.
Shipped from the UK safely and insured worldwide.
Details
Era
1400-1900
No. of items
1
Style
Antique
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Material
Bone
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
52 mm
Width
10 mm
Depth
10 mm
Estimated period
1750-1800
Title additional information
Post Medieval Fid
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