Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Jason Anstey · 30th January 2008, 05:50 AM

Hi Chaps!

Well it's been quite a while since I have updated this thread. Well the project is almost complete, I have on the way made some changes to the design and specs so it really is more of a custom piece than a reproduction of the historic example.

Instead of the white onyx for the pommel stone I wanted to uses a THai Black Sapphire (as was suggested here), Unfortunately the price was way out of the possibility so Serge found some black spinels at a reasonable price. I am pretty sure that these are often sold at Black Sapphires to the unsuspecting. I chose the smooth finish.

See pic

I wanted the ribbed appearance on the handle similar to the original which is black lacquer over wound on rattan. I wanted to stay with a wood finish so I supplied a reference of a carved knife handle to Serge and he had a craftsman make a new handle and carve the wood. I think you will agree that the carving is superb.

As the surface area opens up the grain the handle appears darker than the scabbard - I am undecided on whether to have the scabbard darkened now??

Here is a pic of the sword as it stands, pommel stone is still to be attached and silver is to be polished.

In regards to the timing I have made quite a few modifications that were quite different to anything the craftsmen had done before so I adopted a very relaxed attitude with delivery so everything could be done to the best possible quality.

I think Serge has gone out of his way to ensure this unique project turns out to a very high standard.

enjoy!

30th January 2008, 05:50 AM	#6
Jason Anstey Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 102	Hi Chaps! Well it's been quite a while since I have updated this thread. Well the project is almost complete, I have on the way made some changes to the design and specs so it really is more of a custom piece than a reproduction of the historic example. Instead of the white onyx for the pommel stone I wanted to uses a THai Black Sapphire (as was suggested here), Unfortunately the price was way out of the possibility so Serge found some black spinels at a reasonable price. I am pretty sure that these are often sold at Black Sapphires to the unsuspecting. I chose the smooth finish. See pic I wanted the ribbed appearance on the handle similar to the original which is black lacquer over wound on rattan. I wanted to stay with a wood finish so I supplied a reference of a carved knife handle to Serge and he had a craftsman make a new handle and carve the wood. I think you will agree that the carving is superb. As the surface area opens up the grain the handle appears darker than the scabbard - I am undecided on whether to have the scabbard darkened now?? Here is a pic of the sword as it stands, pommel stone is still to be attached and silver is to be polished. In regards to the timing I have made quite a few modifications that were quite different to anything the craftsmen had done before so I adopted a very relaxed attitude with delivery so everything could be done to the best possible quality. I think Serge has gone out of his way to ensure this unique project turns out to a very high standard. enjoy!