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Originally Posted by Rick
Teodor, could the markings be talismanic in nature ?
There seems to be a similarity to some I have seen elsewhere .
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As for the "running wolf" I think it is just a proof of quality, imitating similar marks found on earlier trade blades. Considering it is a living thing, I doubt it had any sort of symbolism among the Muslims in Sudan.
I think you could be right about the markings on the other side of the blade though. It is quite likely that they may have had some protective properties to the original owner of the sword, perhaps in the "warding off evil" variety. Jim mentioned "camel branding" and another possibility is their use as armory marks. I think a talismanic meaning is more likely though.
Regards,
Teodor