68/446

This was an unidentified object when it was first accessioned, but in 2002 was identified by the Antique Metalware Society as a rick knife. A rick knife is used for chopping out compressed hay from ricks.

MERL ‘Handwritten Catalogue’ form - ‘CHOPPER ? // PROBLEM // Unknown // STEEL WOOD. Condition: Edge broken, Handle cracked. Marked: Brades Cast Steel. Confirmed by Antique Metalware Society as Rick Knife- for chopping out compresses hay from ricks [pencil drawing]’, MERL object label [earlier format] – ‘Reading University Museum of English Rural Life // NUMBER: 68 / 446 // GROUP: PROBLEM // NAME: ? CHOPPER. CHEESE KNIFE // COUNTY: 60/9835’