Gene, I share your passion. I also think that understanding the concepts of metalwork technigue, quality and beauty of "other" items will help one to understand the similar in respect to weapons, even if the different techniques are used to produce them. The concept of "old" and "new" is something that can be learned by analysing the "tray" and applying it to the scabbard fittings, blade decorations, etc. Certainly it is not a substitute, but a helpful addition to one's knowledgebase.
Just think - is there a person who can produce a similar work as on your tray now. I seriously doubt it:-) Being a 19th century, it is certainly an antique, made most likely in Isfahan, Persia, in Qajari style, which is not specific to only metalwork, but textile (especially Persian carpets!), woodwork, etc. Similarly patterned cartouches/panels are common on Qajar weapons (but in larger proportions, as it is harder to produce on hard steel). I'd be interesting to see similarity of the Qajari, and other styles of weapon decorations, in comparison to other objects.
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13th July 2009, 01:45 PM
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