The (unintentional) artistry of edged weapons

Jim McDougall · 1st December 2025, 11:02 PM

What a fascinating topic Ian! and the example you show is remarkably perfect as an example of how a relatively simple weapon form is indeed quite beautiful aesthetically.
It is interesting that collectors are attracted to certain forms of weapon with their focus on the artistic beauty of forms as far as decoration, styling, materials used etc. while others follow other courses of attraction.

For me, as an arms historian, my attraction is more to the darkened, often deeply patinated examples of forms left untouched. However, I will admit certain weapon forms are more appealing from certain character, such as old cutlasses, cavalry sabers etc.

There are the specialized forms such as the keris, a formidable subject area, and the incredible artistic value of not only the blades, but the hiltwork.

I look forward to examples showing the many weapon forms in their artistic perspectives!

1st December 2025, 11:02 PM	#2
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,780	What a fascinating topic Ian! and the example you show is remarkably perfect as an example of how a relatively simple weapon form is indeed quite beautiful aesthetically. It is interesting that collectors are attracted to certain forms of weapon with their focus on the artistic beauty of forms as far as decoration, styling, materials used etc. while others follow other courses of attraction. For me, as an arms historian, my attraction is more to the darkened, often deeply patinated examples of forms left untouched. However, I will admit certain weapon forms are more appealing from certain character, such as old cutlasses, cavalry sabers etc. There are the specialized forms such as the keris, a formidable subject area, and the incredible artistic value of not only the blades, but the hiltwork. I look forward to examples showing the many weapon forms in their artistic perspectives!