nimcha with "extended" ricasso

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by stephen wood

...yes it does. I understand that the Maghreb examples have more substantial iron/steel guards. Did I mention evidence of sharpening?

I wonder if this gentleman has been posted here before?

Dont recall if this has been posted before, but its a great illustration!
Interesting noting the 17th century attribution also...reveals how early this well established hilt form has been around. A great deal of pride and certain affection went into fashioning these hilts by Maghreb armourers, and even the simpler hilts reflected skilled workmanship.
It is also interesting to note that the 'nimcha' was even known in England in these times, and wealthy merchants and nobles had acquired these in some cases in trade with Maghreb ports. This contact was not without issue, as it is known that 'Barbary Pirates' raided as far as the English coast and of course even farther north.

Thanks for noting the sharpening.....that would hopefully eliminate the theatrical suggestion I had noted

All best regards,
Jim