Very interesting. I'm wondering what the results would be if a government body or friendly organization were to invest in the area to promote traditionally forged blades. The whole thing could be organized in a cultural context, producing good swords, becoming a subject of national/regional pride that would further promote tourism. How much more intersting it would be to take a tour of the countryside and watch smiths do traditional work, than going to the local bazaar/stand and buying a cheap steel trinket that says absolutely nothing about the country one visits.
Good quality niche markets instead of cheap mass-production...
Regards,
Manolo
|