Knout Whip

By Crusader1307

Designed in Russia around the 14th Century, a Knout was akin to the Ancient Roman Scourge. The handle was made of wood (and was around 10 to 15-inches long (wrapped in leather for “grip”). The lashes of the Whip were long pieces of rawhide that extended in sections – upwards to 1.5 to 2 feet long. At the end of each section, was an attached metal ring. Attached to the end of this – was another piece of rawhide. This “process” went on until a 10 to 15 foot Whip was created. In theory, when “chastised”, a person was not only “cut” by the rawhide, but “battered” with the many small metal rings! This Torture/Punishment (and some did die as a result), was reserved for Prostitutes, Thieves and even accused Witches. The Knout Whip did travel to Spain, Germany and England – as well.