Ian and Ariel,
Thank you for the kind words - but I am not an expert and I am not a schollar - I am not even a wissard.
What I am, is what everyone could be, if he so whishes - a dedicated collector. I do know, there are several dedicated collectors on this forum - I am glad to say. Fewer than some years ago, but still quite a lot.
Ok to the katar. Forget the scabbard like Ariel has said, as they were thrown away in battle worn out, or something else.
The katar is a common type, and could be like Ariel says be anything from first half of 19th century and older.
So how do we date katars? This is one of the hartest things I have ever met.
Mostly you try out for they type - usually not very helpful as the same type has been made for decades. Then you try out for the decoration - if there is any - but also here you are in for a problem, as the decoration could be newer - according to the fashion. But it is not always esy to tell if the decoration fits the age of the weapon or not.
What do you then do - you start researching!!!!!!!!!!!!
I mean it!
With all respect - many of us have researched - and many profit from it, but they dont try to research themselves - why not?
Start researching, and let us discuss the results on the forum.
Silver John, next time you photograph try to awoid the shades like the plaque. Photograph outside when it is clouded, or maybe in the shadow - but stare at the item to make sure there is as little shadow as possible.
Happy photographing
Jens
|