tool
Pointing sword (bricklayer)
The pointing sword (1) is a stonemason's hand tool that was used when
placing large blocks of natural stone. These blocks are not placed in
mortar like bricks, they are placed on wooden blocks after which the mortar
is applied between the stone blocks using this tool (2). The vertical
joints are also filled in this way. The large notches on both sides
therefore serve to push the mortar forward between the stone blocks (3).The
thin metal blade can be attached in line with the wooden straight handle or
form an angle with it. The blade is doubly serrated in shape, with large
notches facing forward. The length of the joint sword depends on the
dimensions of the masonry that you want to build with it.The pointing sword
is similar to the slate ripper but the blade is thinner, the notches are
directed forward and the handle does not end in a hook. [MOT](1)
Translation of 'voegzwaard' in Dutch. The proper name in English is yet
unknown.(2) Trade catalogue MM. Civet, Crouet, Gautier & Co: Exploitation...