Actually, the butchering of old weapons and antiques was quite the vogue during the art-deco era.
I have seen lamps made from ancient Japanese temple incense burners (I was able to partially salvage some of them), candle sticks made from Hussars swords, another lamp featured in Fagan's awhile back made from several kula khud and several dhals, etc. Absolutely shameful, unless they can be restored. Very nice find!!