Fids were used to loosen and tighten knots. It was used to separate the strands of rope for splicing. The fid was used as a club and a temporary pull handle. It was used to shape hand sewn grommets in sails and clothing. After the knife, it was the sailors most important tool.
Hand formed fid with a fine working point.
From the Gonsalves collection.
Nineteenth century.
Good condition.
Length. 174 mm. (6 7/8 inches).