Serbian Kraishnik or Beduin Shashka?

Jim McDougall · 8th July 2007, 07:01 PM

Latter 19th century most likely, since the markings discussed appear on Spanish colonial associated weapons of that period, do you agree Marc?

While close examination would most probably not support the idea, looking at these markings and the linear motif style remind me in some degree of the cuneiform type characters seen in Burton's references to the Assyrian sappara ("Book of the Sword" , 1884, p.207). It is interesting to note that the ancient Assyrian bronze sword Burton is referring to was purchased from a Bedouin at Nardin by a British officer. Though the actual motif on the line drawing of the sword is dissimilar to that on the swords we are discussing, the shapes seen in many cuneiform inscriptions are worth noting. Perhaps atavistic symbolism might have some consideration despite lack of geographic parity? Another curious note is that the inscibed characters on the bronze sword are also in motif on the back of the blade.

8th July 2007, 07:01 PM	#10
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,281	Latter 19th century most likely, since the markings discussed appear on Spanish colonial associated weapons of that period, do you agree Marc? While close examination would most probably not support the idea, looking at these markings and the linear motif style remind me in some degree of the cuneiform type characters seen in Burton's references to the Assyrian sappara ("Book of the Sword" , 1884, p.207). It is interesting to note that the ancient Assyrian bronze sword Burton is referring to was purchased from a Bedouin at Nardin by a British officer. Though the actual motif on the line drawing of the sword is dissimilar to that on the swords we are discussing, the shapes seen in many cuneiform inscriptions are worth noting. Perhaps atavistic symbolism might have some consideration despite lack of geographic parity? Another curious note is that the inscibed characters on the bronze sword are also in motif on the back of the blade.