good day

[yuanzhumin]

Because I mentioned the Paiwan snake pattern in this thread before, I thought that it could be useful to have an idea of what I meant. Here is a graphic that could be of interest, showing how the patterns can be highly stylicised among the Paiwan, as it could be among other tribal groups. Diamond patterns, triangle patterns… all of them symbolizing the snake.

[Jim McDougall]

Nicely done Yuanzhumin!! thank you for posting this which illustrates the similarities in symbolism that can occur convergently. There is an outstanding book from some years ago titled "The Mind in the Cave", which deals with prehistoric man and discusses the meanings of many of the symbols in caves and rock art. Much of the emphasis was on the temporal interpretation of these figures and symbols, often suggesting that they were not necessarily intended to represent events that had happened, as they were meant to entreat positive forces in events yet to take place.

Obviously it is unlikely we can interpret meanings such as these with any accuracy, but it is interesting to note the similarities graphically, and these that you have posted really present excellent comparison.

Again, thank you for acknowledging and responding to my comments and posts, it is very much appreciated I think we're on the same page.

All the best,
Jim

[katana]

With the many cultures that have 'snake' symbolism including India (Naga) and even Europe, that,so far have not been mentioned. I think tying the engraved blade to a specific time frame/culture will be difficult.

Hopefully, the dimensions/spec. of the blade will be forthcoming soon, this would obviously help to assertain the knife's function ...and perhaps then 'narrow' the possible origin. I do hope the blade is not thin and flexible...would you need the protection of the crossguard whilst 'buttering' your bread

IMHO I still feel that the 'raised' spine is functional and not a symbolic feature to 'mimic' a Benin blade, which usually represents an animal form.

Regards David

[chregu]

Hi
Thank you to everyone who made the thoughts and reveal their knowledge.
The knife is now in my!
Blade length 33cm
Blade width (rear) 3.1 cm
Blade width (front) 3.6 cm
Thickness (rear) 4mm
Thickness (front) 3mm
the blade is sharp only on the bottom

[Tim Simmons]

Interesting slim blade. The pointillist engraving catches my eye as does the steel plate under the brass button at the pommel. European hunting knife?

[chregu]

hi simon
I think it's a European, hunting knife belongs (cutlery)

[Tim Simmons]

I was in Oxford today visiting the Pitt Rivers museum { lots of pics to show} and came across this piece. In amonst several of the usual Asian knives and daggers, choora and the like. Labeled eastern dagger? Now with the scabbard, I think it is very clearly a prestige African item. I am certain of a West African origin perhaps even as north as Guinea. The scabbard fits snuggly under the guard. It was not got for pennies but kinda groovy?

Total length in scabbard 44cm, naked 43cm, blade 31cm.