Determining age of Takouba

Jim McDougall · 23rd May 2014, 03:24 AM

Interesting note on the triangular scabbard rings, had not been aware of that note. Keep in mind these blades were remounted many, many times through generations, but I would say this is certainly post WWII .
While it is true we do see of lot of these, they remain fascinating vestiges of the Saharan cultures, particularly the Tuareg. The ongoing work by Iain on these and his website, collections and historical data is exemplary and has established amazing perspective on these which renders even the most commonly seen examples far from mundane.

Iain · 23rd May 2014, 05:09 PM

I'd agree on post WWII but it's certainly not made yesterday. The rings are a good sign, the blade has seen some use. Things age quickly in these areas.

This looks like something that was worn for quite a while in it's environment. Not a bad piece.

blue lander · 23rd May 2014, 05:36 PM

Thanks! I like it alot better than my other Takouba. This one feels more like a sword than just a sword shaped piece of sheet metal.

Another sign of wear and tear I noticed - the front of the chape is bare metal, but the back appears to be plated with brass or whatever. I assume because of exposure to the elements.

23rd May 2014, 05:36 PM	#3
blue lander Member Join Date: Nov 2013 Posts: 456	Thanks! I like it alot better than my other Takouba. This one feels more like a sword than just a sword shaped piece of sheet metal. Another sign of wear and tear I noticed - the front of the chape is bare metal, but the back appears to be plated with brass or whatever. I assume because of exposure to the elements. Attached Images

23rd May 2014, 03:24 AM	#1
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,295	Interesting note on the triangular scabbard rings, had not been aware of that note. Keep in mind these blades were remounted many, many times through generations, but I would say this is certainly post WWII . While it is true we do see of lot of these, they remain fascinating vestiges of the Saharan cultures, particularly the Tuareg. The ongoing work by Iain on these and his website, collections and historical data is exemplary and has established amazing perspective on these which renders even the most commonly seen examples far from mundane.

23rd May 2014, 05:09 PM	#2
Iain Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Olomouc Posts: 1,717	I'd agree on post WWII but it's certainly not made yesterday. The rings are a good sign, the blade has seen some use. Things age quickly in these areas. This looks like something that was worn for quite a while in it's environment. Not a bad piece.