Zakmes met zilveren ajour bewerkt heft 1810

This pocketknife, made with a silver handle by Albertus Antonius Rooswinkel, features a steel blade and a meticulously crafted handle. The handle’s design, adorned with openwork floral motifs and figural scenes, showcases the silversmith’s mastery. Silver, a precious metal, speaks to the knife's value as more than a mere tool; it's a statement of status. The openwork, or ajouré, technique involves carefully cutting away sections of the material, creating a delicate, filigree-like appearance. The floral and figural details suggest a celebration of nature and perhaps even allegorical storytelling. The juxtaposition of the steel blade, forged through industrial processes, and the handcrafted silver handle highlights the blend of utility and artistry. This piece invites us to consider the value we place on both functional design and ornamental expression, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.