Venetian Stiletto

The stiletto was designed primarily as a thrusting weapon, with it’s blade rarely being sharpened. The blade was forged into a rod with fairly narrow, usually triangular cross section although other shapes such as round, square or diamond were not unusual. This type of dagger was widespread in the period when upper class civilian dress often incorporated mail or leather body armour.

Doge’s Palace Stiletto

On a recent trip to Venice, we were touring the Doge’s Palace and admiring the weapons when a particularly beautiful stiletto caught our eye. Centuries old, its elegantly crafted contours and unique triangular blade were obviously shaped by a master – someone who knew his work and knew form and function as well; for the dagger shone with a positively happy wickedness. Stilettos came in many sizes, from delicate little hideout weapons to forthright long daggers suitable for use even as a main gauche, but this is certainly one of the more attractive ones we’ve come across. Each blade face is beautifully hollowed. Grip is wood. This functional dagger is made by Windlass Steelcrafts. Comes complete with sheath.