Medieval, Crusaders Iron Fire lighter - 44 mm (No reserve price)

Medieval Iron Fire Striker (Fire Lighter) with Decorative Notched Design
Culture / Period: Medieval, Crusader Period
Date / Period: Circa 11th–13th century AD
Material: Iron
Dimensions: 18 x 44 mm
Condition: Good condition.

No shipping outside the European Union. Due to complex export regulations concerning cultural goods, this item cannot be shipped outside the EU. Please ensure you have a delivery address within the European Union before placing a bid.

Provenance information:
Object Registration ID: 1027
According to the previous owner, the object had previously been in a private collection in the Netherlands. The date on which it entered this collection is unknown.
The previous owner, B.N. from Schiedam (the Netherlands), stated that the object had been in his collection, although the date of acquisition was not provided.
The current owner (S.N.J. S.) purchased the iron fire lighter from B.N. in Schiedam, the Netherlands.
No further information concerning the earlier ownership history of the object was available from the previous owner

Background Information:
This medieval iron fire striker, traditionally associated with the Crusader period, represents an essential tool used for producing fire before the introduction of modern ignition methods. Its elongated striking edge, curved arms and decorative notched design reflect the combination of practical functionality and craftsmanship found in medieval ironwork.

Fire strikers were used together with flint and suitable tinder. By striking the iron against a sharp piece of flint, small sparks could be produced and directed onto tinder, which was then carefully encouraged into a flame. This method was widely employed for lighting domestic hearths, cooking fires and lamps.

During the Middle Ages, the ability to produce fire was essential to everyday life. Fire-making equipment was carried by travellers, merchants, soldiers and other individuals who needed a reliable means of starting a fire away from established settlements. Such tools were particularly useful during military campaigns, including those undertaken during the Crusades.