A Finely Incised Silver Ornamental Knife/Chopsticks : Jangdo Dagger from Korea, Choson period, 19th century,
This is an ornamental utensil knife set with chopsticks used used for emergencies in Choson Dynasty’s society. The case and knife have beautiful carving. The handle and sheath are highly decorated. Measures 4 5/8” long after assembled. It’s in very good condition.
Choson dynasty Korean men and women wore silver knives hidden inside
their clothes near their chest in order to preserve their honor by suicide should
it become necessary. The chopsticks were for checking food for poison. The set was sometimes a gift of the bride’s in laws, indicating the strictness of a society that placed an extremely high value on fidelity and purity.