Manual del Baratero: or the Art of Handling the Navaja, the Knife and the Scissors of the Gypsies

A full transcript and English translation of the Anonymous 1849 Manual of the Baratero. Offering an enticing window into the use of the navaja, the infamous folding knife of the lower social classes of 19th century Spain. Whilst not strictly a technical how-to, this Manual provides lessons in the handling of edged weapons. Intended to prepare any who might encounter those diestro skilled in the use of the navaja, knife or scissors in the streets of Seville, Malaga, and Madrid, or in the Spanish countryside. The Manual provides a rich cultural and social journey through the world of the baratero and the jitanos. It is a key stepping stone in the history and development of knife arts leading to the popular and effective Bowie. Supported by extracts from numerous contemporary documents; Daviillier’s L’Espagne, Ford’s Handbook for Travellers in Spain, Borrow’s Zincali Account of the Gypsies, Emile Andre’s Defense in the Streets, and more. Bringing to life the history, flavour, romance and dangers of Spain in the mid 1800’s. Read more