New Kattara
 

This Kattara came today. The photos are from the auction, since my camera is having problems. Any comments on the pattern in the blade? There is a ladder pattern on one side and on the other the pattern is more linear. Is this a laminated blade with the layers being more parallel to one side, such that when it was polished the pattern was created. Does anyone have any suggestions about cleaning it to bring the pattern out, or should I leave it as is?

Hi Micheal,
love the blade :cool: Personally, I would etch the blade, with the pattern so clearly visible now.....suggests that it has always been that way.
Interesting that the 'running wolf' mark has been used, presumedly to signify quality and was 'locally' marked.

The blade seems to be thicker ...and therefore stiffer than the usual 'springy' blades ....is that the case. Perhaps this seemingly 'atypical' blade was a 're-work' from a different sword?

All the best
David

Very nice sword and an interesting and unusual blade as well. It is pattern welded and seems to be of a tripartite construction where you have a central core plate with the edges of a higher carbon steel. You can see this type of patterning sometimes in Indian blades and also in Chinese and Moro blades. It could be a German blade but typically most European blades did not have a tradition of polish and etch but if you look in Sasche's book on Damascus Steel, there are some lovely Solingen pattern welds so that is not out of the question. The blade is either a German made blade that has been polished and etched or it could be an Indian blade with faux markings that is in polish and etch. In either scenario, I think it is an interesting blade and an overall very nice piece.

I'll try to get some better photos. The edge looks like a hamon on a katana. It's razor sharp too.