Knife

Art Historical Context

This modest iron knife, crafted between 580 and 640 CE, offers a glimpse into the daily life of Coptic Egypt during the late antique period. Measuring just under six inches, the object was likely a practical tool for cutting or carving, yet its survival in the Metropolitan Museum’s collection highlights the enduring value of even utilitarian metalwork from this era. Coptic culture, rooted in Egypt’s early Christian communities, blended local traditions with influences from the Byzantine world, and such simple implements reflect the resourcefulness of artisans working with readily available iro...