Brass Hilt Dirk

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by mgolab

Thanks again Jim. That is simply awesome!

As an aside, I have since learned that the surname associated with the piece is Morrison. A lot of information out there about the "Clan Morrison", so I am learning.

As we do here! Together!

[Battara]

Many early dirks like this use dot circles that harken back to old Celtic designs. The African attribution is necessary therefore.

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Battara

Many early dirks like this use dot circles that harken back to old Celtic designs. The African attribution is necessary therefore.

Jose, thank you for this note! The Celtic designs were keenly present in various cultures, including Scottish in material culture. One that comes to mind is the dot and circle, which is seen in some Scot weapons, but also turns up in India, Central Asia and the Balkans. As noted, it seems the same simple but notable design/symbol turns up in African culture in degree as well.

While it is hard to say whether these symbols evolved in the convergent sense, or as a result of cultural contact is hard to say, and may apply differently in incidental cases, but as you note, must be considered.

[Battara]

What I meant was it is not necessary for an African attribute.

Many world cultures hold similar structures in beliefs symbols, and artwork. These are not due to so much colonization as to similar archetypes in the mind of the human species, which transfer into cultures, symbols, and arts (according to Dr. Mircea Eliade).

[Jim McDougall]

We're in accord Jose....Im not even sure what I meant or said but what you said sounds good.

[David R]

A classic style and well known and documented for the 17th and 18th centuries.

[mgolab]

I also noticed these marks on the spine of the blade

either a "T" or "P" with a "V" and perhaps a small "M" above

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Battara

What I meant was it is not necessary for an African attribute.

Many world cultures hold similar structures in beliefs symbols, and artwork. These are not due to so much colonization as to similar archetypes in the mind of the human species, which transfer into cultures, symbols, and arts (according to Dr. Mircea Eliade).

This is an excellent point Jose, and I was remiss in not capitalizing on it!
In the study of symbolism and the use of various devices throughout human civilizations and from prehistoric times is well established. One of the best sources reflecting these theories is "Mind in the Cave", (2002) David Lewis-Williams, and describes these kinds of evolutions in symbolism.
Thank you for that suggestion.
Regarding the Celtic circles, it seems those were entwined in that material culture, but I surely cannot speak with authority, many possibilities.

All best regards
Jim

[mgolab]

Not sure if this is some kind of mark on the other side of the blade as well. Odd mark, looks purposefully made.