Hello Jim,
Thank you for very interesting report. I hope I am not mistaken if I say Spanish language was influenced by Arab and/or Berber language during their presence there in 11th century (e.g. al-hambra, al-chimia, etc). So why it could not be possible the same term to occur both in Mexico and on Sahara ? If there is any linguist among forumites, it would really be interesting to learn something about origin (or better linguistic roots) of the word "takouba".
I would be very interested in article by Dr. Lloyd Cabot Briggs on Tuareg Blades and Weapons - some time ago I tried to find it on internet, but without any success. Once I saw very old "takouba" in Ghadames - the blade without crescent (or any) stamps, but with engravings (not etching) which depictived floral motives on hatched backround, all bounded by engraved, cca 15 cm long frame, placed on the blade just below the grip. The blade made of very good springy steel.
Regards,
Martin
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