i agree with all (except the 14thC date of course).
i think the blade could go as early as the 17thC, and the hilt can so as late as 19thC, so ariels 18thC is a safe bet. i do feel a strong possibility that the blade is earlier than the hilt, so a possibility the inscription was put on during this refit.
there are many claims on SFI, many of which are unfounded unfortunately. i look forward to any new book on oriental arms as my library is as important as my collection, but i fear the 'expertise' there is on history and language, and definately not on arms. it seems the presence of inscriptions and placement in a museum seems to be 'proof' in some opinions.
not here i'm pleased to see
