Antique Half-Moon Saddler’s Knife – Couteau à Pied Demi-Lune

Impressive Large Forged Iron Leatherworking Tool – Historic Military Saddlery Connection

An exceptional old half-moon saddler’s knife featuring a dramatic crescent-shaped blade with two pointed ends and a substantial forged central socket designed to accommodate a double wooden handle.

This distinctive traditional leatherworking tool is particularly interesting for collectors of antique craftsmanship, historical saddlery, cavalry equipment and military history.

Historical Identification – Schuler Auctions, Zurich

A remarkably similar example was documented by the respected Swiss auction house Schuler Auktionen, Zurich, March 2021, Lot 542, under the name:

“Grosses Halbmondmesser (Couteau à pied demi-lune)”

The auction house identified its example as a French saddler’s knife from the 18th–19th century, made of iron, measuring 43.5 cm.

The present piece displays a closely comparable blade shape and forged handle socket.

Its precise date and geographical origin have not been independently established.

Fascinating Swiss Army & Military Saddlery History

Half-moon knives were traditional tools of saddlers, whose skills were essential for the manufacture and maintenance of leather horse equipment, including military saddlery.

An especially interesting historical connection exists with the Swiss Army.

The crescent was used as an identifying insignia for Swiss Army saddlers in 1898, while a half-moon knife was specifically documented as their specialist insignia in 1959.

This makes the tool type particularly appealing to collectors interested in military saddlery, cavalry history and traditional military craftsmanship.

Although the historical military connection of this tool type is documented, actual service of this particular example with the Swiss Army or another military organisation has not been established.

Specifications

* Type: Antique-style half-moon saddler’s knife

* French name: Couteau à pied demi-lune

* Material: Iron or steel

* Construction: Traditional forged construction

* Blade: Large, distinctive double-pointed crescent shape

* Handle fitting: Integral forged socket for a double handle

* Estimated overall width: Approximately 40–45 cm (16–18 inches), based on the CD case shown for scale; not precisely measured

* Wooden handles: Missing

* Maker: Unidentified

* Origin and exact age: Undetermined

Condition

Authentic aged condition with attractive natural patina, historical signs of use and age-related surface oxidation.

The distinctive blade shape and forged construction are clearly visible. Sharpness and working functionality have not been tested.

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Collector Appeal

A striking historical tool with exceptional visual character and fascinating connections to traditional European craftsmanship and military saddlery.

An interesting addition to collections of:

* Antique leatherworking and saddler’s tools

* Traditional blacksmithing and forged ironwork

* Historic cavalry and military saddlery

* 18th–19th century craftsmanship

* Unusual European antique tools

The auction is for the exact historical tool shown in the photographs.

Carefully packed shipping according to the listing’s shipping conditions. Collection by arrangement in Oberhofen am Thunersee, Switzerland.

International buyers are responsible for any applicable customs duties and import taxes.