Mytho-poetic interpretation of the so-called langseax, or long Viking “knife,” with an overall length of nearly 75 cm. The engravings shows four different animals or “beasts,” each inspired by one of the elements. With some effort, one can recognize a raven, a boar, a mythical dragon, and a sea monster. Making this piece took me more than 300 hours.

During the planning of the commission, we always referred to this “knife” with the customer as the “Companion.” He ordered it as a sidearm, or if you will, a “companion,” to a magnificent replica of a Viking sword by the famous swordsmith Vince Evans, which was both an honor and a challenge for me.

A whole series of events that followed during the course of this project inspired me to make this “steel companion” the central theme. In extension, the entire weapon is meant to accompany and protect its bearer on his journeys. That is why I used the symbolism of the elements that unite in the forging of steel. From this, I derived the very name, which according to legend in an ancient language means something like Faithful Companion or Reliable Guide.

Blade – damascus – twisted bars with added edge – W.Nr. 1.2842 (O2 / ČSN 19 313) + 75Ni8 Uddeholm (15N20), edge – W.Nr. 1.2842

Guard/pommel/spacers – twisted damascus steel 1.2842 + 75Ni8

Handle – engraved bone, bog oak. This wood was part of the foundation of a medieval bridge and was worked by people around the year 1305. I obtained the wood legally from the head of the archaeological team as leftover material intended for disposal. It is fascinating that this piece of history did not end up in a landfill but could live again as a witness of the past.

Dimensions – overall length 74 cm (approx. 29.13″), blade 51.5 cm (approx. 20.28″),

blade width 47 mm / 35 mm at the guard (approx. 1.85″ / 1.38″), thickness 6.5 mm (approx. 0.256″)