Decorative Dagger "Lionheart"

Decorative Dagger "Lionheart" with English Lion Motifs

Detailed Craftsmanship with a Focus on Heraldry

This dagger will catch your eye at first glance with its rich ornamentation. The crossguard and pommel are cast metal with a brass patina, evoking an antique feel. The quillons are decorated with interlaced Celtic knotwork and slope slightly towards the blade. The pommel is dominated by a relief of a rampant lion, a symbol of courage and strength. The grip is black with distinct profiling for a firm hold. However, the real gem is the scabbard. Its fittings bear the motifs of three lions passant guardant, a direct reference to the crest of the House of Plantagenet and the Royal Arms of England. The blade is made of 420 stainless steel, featuring a distinct central ridge and a false edge, underscoring its decorative purpose.

Usage and Historical Context

This type of dagger is ideal as a costume accessory for Renaissance fairs, LARP (if metal weapons are permitted), theatre performances, or simply as a beautiful paperweight for your desk. Historically, daggers served not only for combat but were also a badge of status.

The motif of the three lions (or leopards, as they were sometimes called in heraldry) is inextricably linked with King Richard I the Lionheart. It was he who established this crest as the official emblem of England in the late 12th century. By carrying this dagger, you symbolically reference the age of chivalric virtues and the Crusades.

Care and Maintenance

To keep the "Lionheart" dagger looking like new for a long time, simply follow a few basic principles. Since the blade is made of stainless steel, it is highly resistant to corrosion. Nevertheless, I recommend wiping it occasionally with a dry cloth to remove fingerprints and grease. You can gently polish the metal parts of the hilt and scabbard. Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents that could damage the patina.

Safety Warning

Please bear in mind that this is exclusively a decorative item. The stainless steel blade is brittle and not structurally designed for striking, prying, or chopping. The dagger is not intended for contact fencing (HEMA, SCA, reenactment combat) or throwing. Such use risks blade breakage and injury. Although the edge is not sharpened, please keep the dagger out of reach of children and handle it responsibly.

A suitable belt frog would be a great addition to this dagger, ensuring it is always at hand and securely fastened at your side.

Specifications