thanks RhysMichael,
the first link is the most interesting, as it appears to have a pretty early example (although i would love to see a closer image). most i have seen seem to be of a later age. as their influence came from an early indian hilt form, which 'died' out, it must have travelled across in the 16thC. so, there must be early examples out there. are you familiar with any. the ont you show is a great and typical example, but cant see it dating before the 18thC (or maybe later?)
the one in elgoods book is definately indian and 16thC, and is a great forerunner of all of these swords, as the form is almost identical.
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