I miss traveling with my handy Swiss Army knife. Since the advent of strict air travel security regulations, I stopped packing my trusty multi-function tool. Recently, I learned that the original version of the utility knife was invented by the Romans.

With a spoon, knife, fork and toothpick, a spike and a mini-spatula, the Roman knife was a useful everyday carry for everyone from soldiers to the wealthy. In fact, some surviving 2,000 year-old models were made of silver with iron blades. Although the iron knife blades have corroded, the other handy sections, hinged and riveted onto a flat silver handle, are all still functional. the cleverness of design and virtuosity of craftsmanship recalls that of the Swiss army knives that we love today.