Takouskara

Iain · 27th July 2021, 11:29 AM

One last point, even the brass pin in the guard of your example is odd, I have never seen this on any kaskara or takouba, again this doesn't mean it has to be a European modification but... as we can see in your first sword, typically even if elements of the form are different the construction method follows similar rules.

When you add the shape, the construction and the look of it together... that's why I think its a later pommel at the very least.

David R · 27th July 2021, 12:02 PM

I am inclined to see the second sword as a "bitser"or shotgun job, all or mostly original parts but not originally one item.
The reason for the gap between shoulder and guard would be because of using the original hole in the tang made when it first went into a Kaskara, and the original hole in the guard when it was used in a Shamshir of one sort or another.
Not all shamshir type swords are eastern, the type was often carried by bandsmen in the British army.

Kubur · 30th July 2021, 05:15 PM

Iain, I went on your great blog and I found a sword that has some similarities with the first sword posted (hilt and sudanese blade).
What do you think about it?

Kubur · 30th July 2021, 05:22 PM

More swords in between Ottoman, kaskara and takouba...

Iain · 31st July 2021, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kubur

More swords in between Ottoman, kaskara and takouba...

The sword in your first image was discussed here when it was on auction. Sadly the throwing knives and the sword are a bit suspect. This style of kaskara hilt appears to be one made in Egypt. The second image you posted with the same style is noted to be collected in Egypt from the AMNH. http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=14711

Iain · 31st July 2021, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kubur

Iain, I went on your great blog and I found a sword that has some similarities with the first sword posted (hilt and sudanese blade).
What do you think about it?

Besides the silver element I don't see that much similarity. Sadly yours is missing the guard to make a detailed comparison.

The sword that used to be mine was unusual for the decorative motif and had an extremely good blade, it was missing the silver on the top of the pommel. I believed at the time (and still do) that it was likely from modern day Nigeria and more to the west than more typical examples from Hausa areas.

30th July 2021, 05:15 PM	#3
Kubur Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Posts: 2,145	Iain, I went on your great blog and I found a sword that has some similarities with the first sword posted (hilt and sudanese blade). What do you think about it? Attached Images

30th July 2021, 05:22 PM	#4
Kubur Member Join Date: Jun 2013 Posts: 2,145	More swords in between Ottoman, kaskara and takouba... Attached Images

27th July 2021, 11:29 AM	#1
Iain Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Olomouc Posts: 1,708	One last point, even the brass pin in the guard of your example is odd, I have never seen this on any kaskara or takouba, again this doesn't mean it has to be a European modification but... as we can see in your first sword, typically even if elements of the form are different the construction method follows similar rules. When you add the shape, the construction and the look of it together... that's why I think its a later pommel at the very least.

27th July 2021, 12:02 PM	#2
David R Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Posts: 1,116	I am inclined to see the second sword as a "bitser"or shotgun job, all or mostly original parts but not originally one item. The reason for the gap between shoulder and guard would be because of using the original hole in the tang made when it first went into a Kaskara, and the original hole in the guard when it was used in a Shamshir of one sort or another. Not all shamshir type swords are eastern, the type was often carried by bandsmen in the British army.