The (unintentional) artistry of edged weapons

[Ian]

Chaqngdao, thank you. Simple designs and well executed craftsmanship. Reminds me of art deco work, with a mix of art and powerful function.

[Rafngard]

Hello all,

Four of my favorite, 2 old, and 2 modern.

1) an old Bugis Keris
(OK, maybe "simple" isn't the right term here)

2) an old Somali billaawe

3) a modern Waray Binalhag, made by Gilbert Ingrato in St. Rita, Samar
(Gilbert is a really nice guy btw, I met him at his home last year and bought this from him)

4) a modern Pira, from Zamboanga, by Mang Ruben

Enjoy!
Leif

[werecow]

I love the full breadth and diversity of swords. But I never tire of the classics... cross hilted European medieval arming swords and longswords will always appeal to something deep inside me. Especially the broad bladed ones like this Alexandria example:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJypHnsEn8o

I seem to have a special love for the type XVIIIs.



Simple but perfect. Although a good old fashioned type XIV also does the trick just fine.

Also, for me the curvature of the pala kilij has always had a strong appeal, especially the ones with a "pala belly" that bows out ever so slightly before curving backwards like my example below or this one. I also really like that T section somehow.




I also really love the profile of the Aceh peudeung




and I am still looking for my perfect type 2 schiavona, as close as I can get to this one below:



EDIT: Oh and also this swept hilt rapier. Somebody stop me or we'll be here all week.

[Lee]

I enjoyed the video, thank you Werecow. I did have an opportunity to hold that (Bashford Dean) Alexandria Arsenal sword several years ago. I neither swung or flexed it though.

Another Alexandria Arsenal marked sword of a different style showing a lot of wear and rehoning at the tip, but the beauty of its form still shines through:

[Ian]

The European classics are indeed inspiring. The excellent symmetry of those medieval swords, contrasting wth the curved single-edged weapons coming later. And the highly worked forms of the keris, emphasizing complexity and mystery.

Keep them coming guys!

[Rafngard]

Originally Posted by Ian

The European classics are indeed inspiring. The excellent symmetry of those medieval swords, contrasting with the curved single-edged weapons coming later. And the highly worked forms of the keris, emphasizing complexity and mystery.

Keep them coming guys!

Ian,

I appreciate your contrasting Medieval European swords with Keris. A well-executed Jawa demam hilt is asymmetrical on every axis, and yet fits perfectly in the hand.
It's one of my favorite things.

Thanks,
Leif

[Sajen]

Here are a few from my own collection which come to my mind!