residue of Yoruba sword

[katana]

Originally Posted by Tim Simmons

David you are too kind.

It certainly appears to be a sword blade that one would think was very old. Benin/Yoruba staff and sceptre do have cast figure handles. This perhaps may have been use for parade? I am not an expert but do have doubts about the age of the handle. It looks as though it has been underground and made to look old with chemical treatment also corroding the blade. I do not think the modelling of the figure is good enough for a high status or court object of the 19th century. Looking through the grime it is remarkably fresh. I have this early? 20th century Nigerian piece.

Hi Tim,
you're too modest ....credit where credit is due, Tim.

Hi Martin,
this article is interesting reading ....may help in 'aging' the hilt......

http://www.authenticafricanbronzesandceramics.com/

All the best
David

[Martin Lubojacky]

David and Tim, thank you very much for your comments. Because of circumstances under the which the item was acquired I am nearly convinced it was not produced to be sold to tourists. But, surely, local maket is full of "Benin" figures (and also "ada" choppers) patinated artificially, but this "patina" is usually nearly black and smooth, with imitation of glossy (exserted) places -"caused by touching". Thanks for the web site, I will do my best to arrange analysis, but it will take some time.
Regards,
Martin

[Martin Lubojacky]

So - I am back - and with sad news. I sent samples of patina/corrosion to Europe (specialised chemical laboratory recommended by David -see http://www.authenticafricanbronzesandceramics.com/). After the chemical analysis the verdikt is definite. This my item is a big fake, patinated and aged arificially
Regards,
Martin

[katana]

Hi Martin,
sorry to hear the news .....I'm disappointed for you

Regards David