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Old 3rd April 2006, 03:30 PM   #7
Jim McDougall
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Route 66
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I completely agree, this appears to be an early Ottoman example that has been remounted, and clearly a 'sleeper'! As Ian notes, Artzi knows EXACTLY what he is doing, and he's one of the best!!! It is not at all unusual for such blades, often heirloom even if not marked, to be remounted. Indian purveyors often remounted older blades along with the many swords they supplied to Arabian buyers in the ongoing trade there, or this may have been as noted, remounted by an owner of a heirloom blade.

What I find distinctly interesting is the 'star of Solomon' on the chowk on one side. I recall years ago when a worn Bedouin sabre on ebay was claimed to be an ancient Jewish sword because of the six point star on the blade! As is now well known, the symbol does occur on Islamic swords, although not particularly often.

I am inclined to think that the hilt components and possibly the scabbard furniture may be original and refurbished as well. Although 'restored' in degree, the sword has integrity! I like that

All the best,
Jim
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