Masterwork: Noisette De Nontron Including 11 Miniature Knives. Penknife Knife

This object of curiosity is a feat of craftsmanship in the same way as other objects of mastery. The artisans of Nontron have managed to house eleven miniature knives in a hazelnut shell.

The hazelnut is separated in two and circled in brass with a hinge to close it.

This hazelnut-box reveals eleven miniature knives. These knives are folding, with wooden handles and metal blades, with the classic shape of the Nontronnais.

A brass chain allows the hazelnut to be worn as a pendant.

Nontron is a very old cutlery center, if not the oldest in France, whose production is attested from the 16th century. Miniature knives, themselves, are known from the end of the 18th century but the peak of this production of Nontron is in the 19th century when it causes a sensation during the Universal Exhibitions. The most extraordinary pieces bring together several dozen knives in a single hazelnut.

Our example is later, probably from the first half of the 20th century.

Unfortunately, there are no more craftsmen in Nontron who perpetuate this know-how at the present time.

Magnificent object of curiosity, witness to the meticulous know-how of the cutlers of Nontron.

15 mm long for a closed knife
26 mm long for an open knife

Each knife weighs only a tenth of a gram!

Very good condition.

Hand delivery in Paris or insured Colissimo shipping.

France: €15
Europe: €20
World: €35