Fids were used to loosen and tighten knots. It was used to separate the strands of rope for splicing. The fid was used as a club and a temporary pull handle. It was used to shape hand sewn grommets in sails and clothing. After the knife, it was the sailors most important tool.
Small hand whittled  fid with a decorative twist and other decorative features.
Nineteenth century.
Good condition.
Length.105 mm. (4 1/8 inches).