Another mystery object.

[brickie in oz]

Another mystery object for the brains trust.

We have had this "thing' for some time and are still baffled as to its use, it has a sharp pointy end and works as scissors do only in reverse.
The handles have Ebony grips that form as one when opened.

Maybe it was inserted then opened to cut as it was withdrawn?
Surgical?

There is a makers mark on it, Arnold and sons, London.

[RTflorida]

My first guess was some type of surgical device, very brutal and midieval looking.

A quick search on Google lists Arnold & Sons London as being the makers of medical devices, including some with ebony handles, was unable to find this item...also found Arnold & Sons London as picture framers and clockmakers. Seems the name was/is pretty popular in London and they all had sons they went into business with.

I'm sticking with a surgical device, looks like something they used on William Wallace in Braveheart. OUCH!

RT

[brickie in oz]

Strange, we've had the item for years and yet shortly after posting I did my first Google for it.

The results for a similar item left me feeling cold.