Unusual Kirach For Discussion

[Jim McDougall]

Hi Rick,
Thank you for the extra shot of the markings.
I cannot resist noting that the more I see this sword, the more I like it!
The wear that has obscured the markings as well as the rough patination where the metallic covering has left distinctly suggests age, and to me that is solid beauty!!
Despite the fact that the apparantly stamped images between the toothed circle appear indistinguishable, the positioning is key. The fact that these toothed circles appear in the same sequence as used in the Italian motif is what is important, and the early 17th century provenance of these markings as well. Such markings found on European blades seem to have profoundly influenced many armourers in India as they used interpretations of them in many variations to declare quality and talismanic virtue on their own blades.
Ironically, this outstanding blade certainly needed no such superfluous pronouncements or markings!

It is also a note of interest, while reviewing Italian markings I noticed the familiar 'sickle marks' that have so often been a matter of discussion. These of course also carry the 'toothed' application seen on these discs as well as on almond shaped figures that often appear with these toothed discs in combination. The 'sickle marks' that are often associated with early Genoan markings, and more commonly Styrian application, appear almost consistantly on Afghani palouars' blades. While the markings are obviously not the same, it is interesting that their 'toothing' is similar, and their earlier ancestry seems to Italian armourers, with thier use found in the NW quadrant of India.
Good grief! I'm starting to sound like a dentist with all this toothy talk!!!

Best regards,
Jim

[tom hyle]

OK, here's the thing. If, as Rick says, (and as is fairly common) the sword is wedge sectioned, but becomes flat or nearly so by the cutting area, then the false edge must be at a more acute/fine angle than the true edge, because the rear bevel appears to be consistantly wider. The interesting thing about this is that it would be consistent with a US fighting style featuring an large bowie with the "clip" sharped to a hatchet-like angle, when it is used, as some insist is the correct way, with the main edge upward, toward the thumb....

[Jim McDougall]

Tom,
Nicely observed ! If I may say so, I think your comments and observations on the dynamics and construction of arms and armour are outstanding. It seems most of my focus is always on aesthetics or markings, while you do a great job at noting key component and constructional factors often overlooked.
Thank you for giving us this important perspective.
All the best,
Jim

[Rick]

Originally Posted by tom hyle

OK, here's the thing. If, as Rick says, (and as is fairly common) the sword is wedge sectioned, but becomes flat or nearly so by the cutting area, then the false edge must be at a more acute/fine angle than the true edge, because the rear bevel appears to be consistantly wider. The interesting thing about this is that it would be consistent with a US fighting style featuring an large bowie with the "clip" sharped to a hatchet-like angle, when it is used, as some insist is the correct way, with the main edge upward, toward the thumb....

Back edge is much more acute than concave edge .

Give this man a fine Cuban Cigar !
He is absolutely correct in his observation .