Shi or Havu sword for comment
 

I was very, very fortunate in picking this up recently. These are some of the seller’s images, I hope to take more myself soon. All comments welcomed.

Russel

Hi Russel

Interesting sword. I've never seen one of these with a figurative handle like that ?

Looking forward to more images when you get the piece. Some close-ups of the handle and where the blade enters, please.

Regards.

The handle reminds me somewhat of those little Lega ivory figures.
Regards
Richard

I like these swords so much so that I have kept hold of mine while I have dispersed all my Asian and many African swords and knives. I am convinced that many of these blades are etched. I see too many with an etched surface to be the the consequence of the rust etching. The blade may well be a single iron as opposed to the mixed metals of many Asian etched blades but some kind of similar surface etching has been achieved. One way of proving this is to post storm these weapons. I will post close ups of mine when I can.

Hello Russel,

it's a real beauty, like very much the beautiful ivory grip. Colin have maybe doubts if the handle is original to the blade and frankly said I am as well when I have seen this sword by ebay. But now I am nearly sure that it is originally or already very long together with the blade.

Congrats for this great addition to your collection.

Regards,

Detlef

I too have some reservations about the handle ....the wear / colouration looks un-natural :confused:

Perhaps more pics may change that...once you received it. Still an interesting piece.

All the best

David