1986.008.3039
Scissors
Physical Object
1986.008.3039
Nuestra Señora de Atocha (1622)
circa 1620
This pair of scissors was originally made of iron or steel, but the metal degraded, and the form is cast from the calcareous marine concretion that formed around them underwater. They are housed in a sheath made of canvas or some other crude cloth, which would have protected the blades and gives a sense that the scissors were valued. They are of a simple design and would fall under the category of “general purpose” scissors. Scissors on a ship might be used to cut cloth or thread, trim hair and beards, or as a tool in medical care. 10.4 x 3.9 x 1.0 cm.