Blood and hilts

[Jim McDougall]

Hi Celtan,
Although I have always very much admired the Samurai legends and the amazing Japanese swords, I have never really gone too far into thier study. In the cases of Muramasa and Masamune, the names are so close it is confusing for a novice as myself on these swords. I have only ever owned one Japanese sword, a katana, which dated about 1860's and was significant to me with its proximity to the famed Satsumi Rebellion. The blade had a deep crack, thus eliminating any value other than intrinsic. Just the same, I very much enjoyed having it simply for what it was, regardless of its status among purists.

I think that the example you have sounds great in its own right in the same way. Even 20th century weapons often have thier own place in history and in thier own degree. I would keep restoration minimal and enjoy it pretty much as it is.

Concerning the more esoteric properties of weapons, in studying the history of them one cannot discount the superstitions, beliefs and theological perspectives that accompany them into our own times. The sacred nature of the sword of the Samurai is well established, the religious significance imbued into the swords of Hinduism and Islam much revered.
In Indonesia, the mysteries of the keris are paramount in the traditions and sacred beliefs of these important cultures, and certainly exceed the definitions typically used in trying to describe them by those who do not deeply understand them.

As I have heard commented in a number of instances when people of various cultures have entered a place full of old antique weapons......there are spirits here! Whether believed or not...the thought is compelling.

All the best,
Jim