khayber Sword

[ariel]

Originally Posted by Jens Nordlunde

If you have not, then try to make a ’search’, and you will see there are quite a number of threads. The blades are mostly alike, some decorated and some not, but notice the very different hilt forms.

That what interested me for quite some time. Indeed, the handles are quite different and fall into 3 types; what we see on the example here ( rounded pommel), the ones with a lobulated pommel and the ones with no pommel at all ( more like kard).
Is there any tribal/geographical connection?

[Jim McDougall]

Excellent observation Jens! It does indeed seem that most variation is in the hilts, and as Ariel has suggested, quite possibly tribal or regional variation.
Kronckew, LOL! very good observation on the 19th c. Pathan electricians tape!!!!

On the mounts, I notice the familiar circled dot motif that is typically seen on weapons from Afghanistan and surrounding regions. From what I understand, this is a simple, but quite ancient geometric motif that is often found in these regions. Can anyone elaborate more on this motif? I have seen the same on lohars as well as buzkhashi whips.

All the best,
Jim

[Jens Nordlunde]

Yes Ariel, but it should also be remembered that there are variation of the different types. I think the different types come from different clans, although I can't prove it.
Yes Jim, the circle decoration is interesting, and as you mention, also seen on other Afghan weapons.
Jens

[spiral]

Nice piece Bill, Given the walrus hilt & clearly original koftgari I would be surprised if it isnt wootz.

Spiral

[Rick]

A fancy piece , just closed.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...ayphotohosting

[ward]

The circle motif are eyes of god basically coming from pre islam birds looking down at people. from the construction I would date to very end of 19th century

[Montino Bourbon]

Is done (IMHO) with a drill bit that makes a hole the diameter of the circle. the old bits have a guide tip in the center, like a modern Forstner bit.