Hi Bally,
first of all congrats on your graduation ( knowledge is the 'mightiest' weapon of all
)
I too think, that if the price is 'right' ...get it. I also believe the head is upside down....but it seems to have been like it for awhile....judging by the rust around the finial (as suggested by Tim)
Another, high end version sold at Christies ...described as Ottoman ...the head very similar in shape but with decoration. There does seem to be decoration obscured by rust on the one posted.
http://www.christies.com/LotFinder/l...jectID=5164286
Regards David