OTTOMAN....What do we mean?

[kahnjar1]

Originally Posted by estcrh

Stu, the problem is the lack of accurate information on were exactly many "Ottoman" armor and weapon items were manufactured. Most, if not all of us would be very happy to be able to pinpoint what country our items came from, but what sources can be used for this that are accurate and trustworthy?

Here is an example, this war hammer is in my opinion "Ottoman". How can I verify that, what reference will tell me with any certainty that this was manufactured in the Ottoman empire and what country in the Ottoman Empire it originated from. Right now I would probably describe it as "Indo-Persian" (possibly Ottoman)

Agreed, but with Forum discussion, and looking at the particular features of an item, we MIGHT just arrive at a particular origin point. That would be to the benefit of all....not just Forum Members. If we simply dismiss an item as being Ottoman (or Arabian or Middle Eastern or whatever) we could miss a great opportunity to further our knowledge. Nothing can ever be CERTAIN, but at least hopefully some progress could be made.
Stu