S/5919 Antique Treen 18th Century Naval Marlin Spike

An interesting 18th century naval marlin spike, having a reeded oak tapered handle to ensure a firmer grip. Marlin spikes with iron ends, as in this instance, were used to open up heavy duty cables or ropes, which demanded something stronger and more robust than a wooden fid, which were of a similar design and often made of whale bone, hardwood or lignum vitae and used for softer and more pliable ropes.

Provenance: Desborough Collection

Sold 7 in. (18 cm.) Deep
1 in. (2.5 cm.) Diameter English Circa 1780