Barrow-blades
itemElegant leaf-shaped blades of ancient Dúnedain make, wrought from strange metal that defies rust and time. The surfaces feature intricate red-and-gold serpent damascening that catches the light, with fiery stones set into the hilts, giving them a marvellous and glittering appearance. They function as swords for hobbits yet are carried discreetly, serving as both weapons and relics preserved by spell or sheath virtue.
The Barrow-blades, exquisite ancient swords forged by the Dúnedain from unrusting metal adorned with serpent damascening and fiery hilt-stones, are discovered by Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin in the Barrow-downs of the Old Forest in The Fellowship of the Ring. These leaf-shaped blades, perfectly suited as swords for hobbits, prove their enchanted worth when they detect the presence of orcs, their edges flaming blue in warning. Though their role diminishes after their initial unveiling, the Barrow-blades symbolize the enduring legacy of Númenor's heirs, arming the hobbits against the shadows of the North in the early perils of the quest.
Evolution
The Fellowship of the Ring: Being the First Part of the Lord of the Rings
Elegant leaf-shaped blades of ancient Dúnedain make, wrought from strange metal that defies rust and time. The surfaces feature intricate red-and-gold serpent damascening that catches the light, with fiery stones set into the hilts, giving them a marvellous and glittering appearance. They function as swords for hobbits yet are carried discreetly, serving as both weapons and relics preserved by spell or sheath virtue.
Book Appearances
The Fellowship of the Ring: Being the First Part of the Lord of the Rings
First appears Ch 10