These fittings on a hunting knife bear the inscription “Adolph, Duke of Nassau, to Court Councillor Dr. Pagenstecher.” 

A hunting knife is a short bladed weapon used for hunting deer. Originally used for hunting on horseback, it was later used on foot. Later, the hunting knife served as a status symbol and as part of a uniform.

Dr. Alexander Pagenstecher was an ophthalmologist and founded the Eye Hospital in Wiesbaden in 1856, serving as its director until the end of his life.

Dr. Pagenstecher received the mountings as a gift in 1878. He died a year later as a result of a hunting accident.