HAND FORGED MEDIEVAL CANDLE SPIKEPA7895NobleWare In the medieval period, blacksmithing was a skill so valued that it was considered part of the set of seven mechanical arts. Blacksmiths are skilled artisans work by heating pieces of wrought iron or steel, until the metal becomes soft enough to be shaped with hand tools such as hammer, anvil and chisel. This Medieval Candle Spike replica is hand forged from blackened steel like the originals. Each Candle Spike measures 5 3/8" overall with a 3" spike capable of penetrating wood posts or planks. One piece blackened finish steel construction.
• Measures: 3" spike, 5.5" overall • Historically Accurate
• Material: Hand forged blackened steel • Weight: 0.15 lbs
BLACKSMITH The term "blacksmith" comes from the activity of "forging" iron or the "black" metal, namely iron as opposed to the "white" metals such as tin, silver or gold; "black metal" so named due to the color of the metal after being heated. The term "forging" means to shape metal by heating and hammering. "Smith" is from the Proto-German "smithaz" meaning "skilled worker" or "craftsman." Not only did Blacksmiths create armour and weapons, but they were also responsible for producing objects such as gates, grilles, railings, nails, candle lamps and fixtures, cooking and eating utensils, tools, furniture, agricultural equipment, jewelry, and decorative and religious items. In Medieval times, a "village smithy" was a staple of every town.
THE CLIP: Forging is the process in which metal is shaped by hammering. Forging is different from machining in that material is not removed by it; rather the iron is hammered into shape. Even punching and cutting operations (except when trimming waste) by smiths will usually re-arrange metal around the hole, rather than drilling it out as swarf. The above clip is a wonderful glimps into this highly artistic craft. So if you have a moment or two, please watch a skilled blacksmith forge a beautiful Rams head Poker from a white hot piece of steel. A wonderful account of a truly inspiring craft of ages, this blacksmith is certain to make you look at these hand made works of iron and steel with new eyes and appreciation.
PA7895