Silver Plate Fruit Knife / Letter Opener Ball & Claw Motif

Rare knife – possibly for cheese or could be a letter opener.  It is fairly sharpe hand made blade.  No stamps  or hallmarks identified.  Most likely silver plate.  Probably European in origin.  Has intricate eagles talon / claw holding onto glass ball.

Items featuring animal motifs were a popular trend in the 17th and 18th centuries. One of the most iconic designs was the claw and ball, which featured eagle or dragon talons clasping a ball. The ball and claw symbol is a powerful and meaningful symbol that has been used for centuries to represent power, strength, protection, and unity.

As found condition.  Over all length is 12 cm or 4.7 inches.  The blade is 7 cm or 2.75 inches.