Name/Title
ChappuEntry/Object ID
54; Full Code: 54.11.1-KN-TRTags
Knife, FoldersDescription
This artifact is a Traditional Friction Folder, documented as being commissioned from a local bladesmith in Tarapur, Anand District, Gujarat in 2002. It represents a fundamental branch of tool engineering that prioritizes Mechanical Simplicity and Field Repairability over complex modern locking systems. This specimen serves as a robust record of the "Utility First" philosophy of rural Indian blacksmithing traditions.
Core Components & Engineering
The Blade (Forged High-Carbon Steel): A single-edged blade forged from reclaimed carbon steel (likely sourced from a vehicle leaf spring or similar industrial stock).
Geometry: Features a Spear Point profile with a straight cutting edge. The "Recurve" near the base is an organic result of the forging process rather than a tactical design choice.
Surface Condition: The blade exhibits a "Forced Patina" of grey and black oxides. This documents the metallurgical history of the piece, providing a natural layer of corrosion resistance without the need for synthetic coatings.
The Hilt (Hardwood Scales):
Architecture: Constructed from two slabs of dense local hardwood (likely Babul or Shisham), pinned directly to the blade's pivot.
Mechanical Logic: The handle lacks a steel liner. This reduces the tool's total mass and eliminates a potential site for rust and debris accumulation, making it an ideal "All-Weather" agricultural utility tool.
The Mechanism (Friction Pivot):
The Physics: There is no mechanical lock or spring. The blade is held open purely by the Coefficient of Friction between the tang and the wooden scales, and the user's hand pressure during use.
Administrative Interface: Features a simple wire bail at the pommel, allowing for high-security tethering to a belt or wrist cord—a critical feature for preventing tool loss in high-vegetation village environments.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Bladesmith of TarapurDate made
circa 2002Ethnography
Cultural Region
State/Province
GujaratRegion
Western IndiaDimensions
Dimension Description
5.5"Length
3-1/2 inAcquisition
Acquisition Method
PurchasePlace
State/Province
GujaratRegion
Western India
