From the first knives of the Neolithic Age to the modern USB flash penknives, the exhibition illustrates the historic and cultural origins of the penknife. Thanks to the loan of an exceptional private collection, the public can admire a wide selection of knives: sorcerer knives, knives with lighter attachment, pistol knives, feather knives, etc., and discover that their development is closely linked to the way civilisation has evolved.
An important chapter in the history of cutlery, the Swiss army knife made its appearance at the end of the nineteenth century. Still manufactured today by the only two companies authorised to display the white cross – Victorinox and Wenger –, it was created soldiers but, paradoxically, is considered to be a tool box rather than a weapon.
In addition to a chronological and typological inventory of penknives, the exhibition also pays tribute to mankind’s first instrument.
The exhibition was designed by the Forum of Swiss History, Schwyz.
