An Overview on The Modern Arabian Saif

[A.alnakkas]

Originally Posted by Iain

I understand the tradition aspect, what pains me a bit is the obvious drop in quality, with good, if a bit tattered older elements being changed out for flashy, but lower quality new pieces. Still, it's good the culture of swords survives.

Also good to hear a few legitimate smiths survive. Are there any "castes" or societal factors around who does this kind of work?

Good question, Iain. Sorry for the late reply, you know how distracted I am lately.

Well, I noticed that in both Bahrain and Qatar, the oldest and most well known smiths and swordmakers are Shiite, who are generally not members of tribes. Although they arent treated differently, hopefully :-)

[Iain]

Originally Posted by A.alnakkas

Good question, Iain. Sorry for the late reply, you know how distracted I am lately.

Well, I noticed that in both Bahrain and Qatar, the oldest and most well known smiths and swordmakers are Shiite, who are generally not members of tribes. Although they arent treated differently, hopefully :-)

Interesting, does this have anything to do with the large blade industry and many imports from Persia historically?

[Sancar]

Given the Arab world is one of the very few places on earth that blades are still commonly worn as a part of the daily costume, I find it very interesting that quality and tradition of swordmaking did not continue to carry on as strongly as it was in the 18-19th centuries. Logically, it should have been the only safe haven for this art to survive as it is.

[A.alnakkas]

Originally Posted by Sancar

Given the Arab world is one of the very few places on earth that blades are still commonly worn as a part of the daily costume, I find it very interesting that quality and tradition of swordmaking did not continue to carry on as strongly as it was in the 18-19th centuries. Logically, it should have been the only safe haven for this art to survive as it is.

Hey Sancar,

It is true that there is a decline in quality, but some very fine items are still being made in KSA and other countries. Sadly, I couldnt afford to have one made for me!