More kaskaras

Iain · 17th May 2011, 07:40 PM

Jim essentially noted the main points. These could be turn of the century, recalling Ed's excellent research the guards are one thing to look out for and these seem to be old and very well made with nice definition in the angles.

You got a good price on these Colin and I imagine they will clean up nicely.

One thing to keep in mind is that even after 1898 British campaigns into the Sudan continued up until 1916. Having a 20th century date ascribed to a kaskara or takouba is in no way a bad thing.

Cheers,

Iain

katana · 17th May 2011, 07:54 PM

Hi Colin,
like with Takouba check the fullers are not 'mechanically ground' with a circular grinder....often found on later blades. Are the blades flexible ? I too am a fan of Kaskara

Kind Regards David

Edster · 18th May 2011, 01:33 AM

Colin,

Thanks for posting. I agree with Jim and Iain as to attribution. The one on the left has the best crossgard. If it has an X at its center, it is likely to be in the made well before WW2. More than likely in the 1916-20 range, but daating is difficult. Cross guard is of the same quality as we have seen on presentation pieces. Apparently the skill to make the flared diamond profile died out before in the post-war and 1980's generation. IThe leather wrapped handle is common for utility items, and I'd say that both have seen active use in the field.

Please post the swords when they have been cleaned. I'm sure you use Museum Wax on the finished work to prevent rust, but other readers may appreciate the tip.

Best regards,
Ed

17th May 2011, 07:54 PM	#2
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,658	Hi Colin, like with Takouba check the fullers are not 'mechanically ground' with a circular grinder....often found on later blades. Are the blades flexible ? I too am a fan of Kaskara Kind Regards David Last edited by katana; 18th May 2011 at 01:49 PM.

17th May 2011, 07:40 PM	#1
Iain Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Olomouc Posts: 1,717	Jim essentially noted the main points. These could be turn of the century, recalling Ed's excellent research the guards are one thing to look out for and these seem to be old and very well made with nice definition in the angles. You got a good price on these Colin and I imagine they will clean up nicely. One thing to keep in mind is that even after 1898 British campaigns into the Sudan continued up until 1916. Having a 20th century date ascribed to a kaskara or takouba is in no way a bad thing. Cheers, Iain

18th May 2011, 01:33 AM	#3
Edster Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Posts: 415	Colin, Thanks for posting. I agree with Jim and Iain as to attribution. The one on the left has the best crossgard. If it has an X at its center, it is likely to be in the made well before WW2. More than likely in the 1916-20 range, but daating is difficult. Cross guard is of the same quality as we have seen on presentation pieces. Apparently the skill to make the flared diamond profile died out before in the post-war and 1980's generation. IThe leather wrapped handle is common for utility items, and I'd say that both have seen active use in the field. Please post the swords when they have been cleaned. I'm sure you use Museum Wax on the finished work to prevent rust, but other readers may appreciate the tip. Best regards, Ed