We could use some help here!

kai · 18th April 2013, 01:14 AM

Please have a look at the attached shell guard of 2 ethnographic swords (probably from Bicol, Philippines, during the Spanish colonial period):
Are these recycled pieces or of local craftmanship?
Can their origin be narrowed down to a specific style/period/locale?

Here is the thread with more pics.

Thanks a lot!

Regards,
Kai

Jim McDougall · 18th April 2013, 03:43 AM

These striated shell guards are similar in style to espada anchas (Spanish colonial swords in the Americas) which have been provenanced to Brazil mid 19th century. The belt hook is also a characteristic associated with these. Most interesting hybrid!!! and reflects the trade in outermost regions of the "Spanish Main", between the Philippines and South America.

M ELEY · 18th April 2013, 04:35 AM

In total agreement with Jim on this one. The striated guard with downward reverse 'hook' found on espada from Brazil and possibly other S Amer provinces? It is fascinating to see these hybrid types when one takes into account the trade routes of the Spanish and Dutch trade. Kai, that post has some excellent examples of weapons with cross-over appeal!

18th April 2013, 01:14 AM	#1
kai Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 3,255	We could use some help here! Please have a look at the attached shell guard of 2 ethnographic swords (probably from Bicol, Philippines, during the Spanish colonial period): Are these recycled pieces or of local craftmanship? Can their origin be narrowed down to a specific style/period/locale? Here is the thread with more pics. Thanks a lot! Regards, Kai Attached Images

18th April 2013, 03:43 AM	#2
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,191	These striated shell guards are similar in style to espada anchas (Spanish colonial swords in the Americas) which have been provenanced to Brazil mid 19th century. The belt hook is also a characteristic associated with these. Most interesting hybrid!!! and reflects the trade in outermost regions of the "Spanish Main", between the Philippines and South America.

18th April 2013, 04:35 AM	#3
M ELEY Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: NC, U.S.A. Posts: 2,141	In total agreement with Jim on this one. The striated guard with downward reverse 'hook' found on espada from Brazil and possibly other S Amer provinces? It is fascinating to see these hybrid types when one takes into account the trade routes of the Spanish and Dutch trade. Kai, that post has some excellent examples of weapons with cross-over appeal!