Understood Dom
Naturally it is the 'real'weapons that I remember collecting (back in the day
and of course I could not possibly relate to a copy of a weapon....and gladly accepted well worn old warriors which were what I could afford, but they were the real deal.
And who wouldnt want the real thing in art to display along with the real weapon! But realistically, only those with substantial resources can often afford fine arts in paintings and or weapons. For purposes of study and research, all I was saying was that it was not really necessary to own the actual painting to utilize the pictures elements for identification, and copies or photos would suffice.
Through the years often books I needed for research were considered rare or hard to find, and horribly expensive when found. All I needed was to check some information and make a few notes, therefore I simply put my librarian to work and borrowed these for the time required. If I was collecting books, then perhaps I would pay the money for a first printing, 1st edition...but this was research, not collecting.
You are absolutely right though..we all have our own priorities and values, and I feel very lucky to be able to vicariously enjoy the magnificent things everyone shares here!!! I am most grateful for your kind contributions here too, as for me the learning is the treasure.
All the very best,
Jim