![]() |
|
![]() |
|
Thread Tools | Search this Thread | Display Modes |
![]() |
#1 |
Member
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Kent
Posts: 2,653
|
![]()
Newest addition to my collection. This dagger/short sword is relatively sharp, with a dot pattern (serpentine ?) running down the centre of the blade (both sides). Blade 37 cms long, 4cms at widest point, good patination and tempered steel.
The handle (24cms) is aluminium, heavily encrusted with oxidation, it appears that the handle was cast with the blade inserted. The handle was then hand worked, and incised with a 'criss-cross' pattern on the raised banding. I do not think the scabbard is original to the blade, it fits very well but there is a flap (which is a later addition), which has two leather 'toggle' type straps which secure the handle perfectly. The scabbard has a shoulder strap. The 'crown' (?) pommel is very interesting, and overall I extremely happy with it ![]() ADDITION. Whilst 'playing' with this, I found it was very comfortable to use two hands on the handle, the raised 'points' just above the 'crown' fit between the fingers, the 'crown' fits neatly in the clenched palm (left hand) and gives a lot of control. A two handed short sword??? ![]() Can any one help identify this piece or its origins? Also I am reluctant to clean the handle, should I or should I not??? |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#2 |
Member
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: What is still UK
Posts: 5,773
|
![]()
I would agree this has all the hallmarks of a typical West African knife for general personal use and the presents of aluminium suggests the late 1920s as the earliest date.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#3 |
Member
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Montréal, Province of Québec, Canada
Posts: 46
|
![]()
I agree with Mr Simmons, but I can't add anything else. It is the first time I seen this pommel pattern, very interesting aquisition !
Sincerely, Zan |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#4 |
Member
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Kent
Posts: 2,653
|
![]()
Thankyou both, I have a feeling the blade is European. The aluminium (with its oxidation) looks like 'old' metal. I have seen early neglected aluminium, with a similar 'patina'.
'Modern' aluminium seems to have a different appearance when oxidised, perhaps this is due to the differing 'mix' of additive metals, such as magnesium, used to enhance the metal's properties.? The problem I've still got is whether I should clean/polish the handle and lose the aged look, or to leave it as is? votes please gentlemen |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#5 |
Vikingsword Staff
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: The Aussie Bush
Posts: 4,153
|
![]()
I vote to leave it as is. You can always polish it later if you want to, but you can never unpolish it.
Ian. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#6 |
Member
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Kent
Posts: 2,653
|
![]()
Thanks Ian for your advice, I tend to agree with you
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
|
|