Archery tool in this painting.

[Dr.Spaniel]

I think this is the place for this question… Today we took the kids to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This painting was in the European section. It’s Flemish and was painted in 1609, oil paint on copper. The painting depicts the goddess and huntress Diana, with her gal pals and the fruits of their labor. My question is about the woman in the top right. She stares down an arrow shaft and seems to have a tool in her hand. Anybody know what it is?

 

[nevadabugle]

Can't tell. Not much visible of the tool. I would guess something to straighten a wood shaft.

 

[Slickhill]

Hard to say no more than is visible and probably stylized but likely a thumb plane.

 

[Beendare]

It's been common knowledge for centuries how to make, straighten and tune wood arrow shafts.

There are smooth blocks to rub the shaft and return them to straight. Essentially you rub the high side while holding it straight or past straight.

There are concaved tools that were used like sandpaper to remove material to smooth, straighten and lessen arrow spine.

 

[Dr.Spaniel]

Awesome. Thanks for the replies. It’s a beautiful painting.