16th Century Dusack (Dussack, Tesak)

[shayde78]

Jim!!

I'm so glad you weighed in. As I have told you in the past, you embody the spirit of this forum in all the best ways. I do have a backlog of items to share here...I just need to find the time. Hopefully, I can get into a rhythm of posting again.

It certainly took a leap of optimism to bid on this piece. I still need to take the measurements I like to include when I post something here. Also, I haven't yet been able to dig out my book showing the offerings of Schmitt's workshop. It's possible something similar will be depicted there. Between the posts on this thread and those I have received privately, it seems the consensus is split. To me, that is an encouraging sign and at least means I wasn't off-base for spending a little bit more than I am accustomed to spending for an acquisition.

How the surface condition of the blade appears in photos is right to give people pause.

The construction methods still lead me to believe in a period creation.

Also, to correct a previous understandable observation, the hilt bars are not of uniform girth. The thickness of each bar varies throughout their length. However, the variations are not drastic. Still, it suggests fully hand-forged technique and not use of some standard bar stock.

Still, I'll try to provide specific measurements that may help as people try the dubious prospect of assessing an item by mere photos alone.

Cheers all,
-Rob