17th-18th century
Before the invention of phosphorus matches in England in the 19th century, flint strikers were a necessary part of everyday life throughout the world. In Safavid Iran, they were made of steel in beautiful yet functional forms such as this one, with a graceful handle which fits the hand easily and the head of a dragon. Notes from the Glory and Prosperity exhibition, Feb - June 2002.
12 cm (4 3/4 in.)
Silver
18th centuryBritishPlaster, terracotta
Bronze
3rd century BCEGreekStone
3rd millennium BCENear EasternBronze
1st-2nd millennium CERomanSilver
18th centuryIrishSilver
18th centuryBritishLeaded bronze
1st millennium BCE-1st millenium CERoman?Stone
RomanStone
20th centuryChineseIron mounted on wooden plaque
17th-18th centuryPersian