Deutsches Klingenmuseum Solingen - Archaeometallurgical Research Project "A Sword is Created"

In December 2024, Deutsches Klingenmuseum Solingen will open two new big, permanent exhibitions: "ME FECIT SOLINGEN - Blade : City : History" and the connected children's exhibition "Dragon and Magic Sword". "ME FECIT SOLINGEN" presents the development of Solingen's blade production from its origins in the Middle Ages to its heyday in the 17th century. It will answer the question why Solingen became the "city of blades". Particular attention is paid to the production methods and craftsmanship of past centuries. A very special project is in the making: The archaeometallurgical research project “A Sword is Created” will demonstrate the re-creation of a museum original step by step: from the ore, to the blade blanks, to the finished sword. Hands-on objects will be available for each step of the process. Offers are to be given for all parts of the project. This includes the necessary research, as well as the production of samples and a sword replica according to historic methods and techniques. Original or historically accurate tools are to be used for all steps of production. The major parts of the project are: - collection of iron ore - smelting process - production of hands-on samples - production of finished replica - provision of scientific steel characterization - provision of texts, macrophotography, images, historic iconography, bibliographical references for exhibition - logistics for videography (Historic authenticity has to be researched and guaranteed by the contractor for all parts.)