Antique Backsword

Peter Andeweg · 23rd January 2023, 09:53 AM

This is a Berber sword, most of these are attributed to Tunesia. The hilt is made of horn, which sometimes looks like wood. Many local and European import blades were used. Often with a self-made leather scabbard. Many are decorated with European marks such as crescent moon and eyelash marks which originate in Germany and Italy. It dates from the 19th century.

In 1954, Henri Lhote writes the following in his book ‘Note on the origin of Tuareg’s sword blades‘:

”II and III- Genovese marks, but also done in Germany, in Solingen, by Clemens Stamm (circa 1590); in Italy, in Padua, by Pietrus Antonio Furmigano (circa 1565); in Spain, by Juan Martinez from Toledo (circa 1565) and also by Pedro de Belmonte, of which we already spoke. The Tuareg craftsmen, who call that mark ayor, the moon, or télit, have imitated it frequently.”

He referred to an illustration which I will try to add. Another photo is added of an arms dealer in Tripoli selling a similar sword.

23rd January 2023, 09:53 AM	#7
Peter Andeweg Member Join Date: Feb 2020 Location: Vlissingen, Netherlands Posts: 71	This is a Berber sword, most of these are attributed to Tunesia. The hilt is made of horn, which sometimes looks like wood. Many local and European import blades were used. Often with a self-made leather scabbard. Many are decorated with European marks such as crescent moon and eyelash marks which originate in Germany and Italy. It dates from the 19th century. In 1954, Henri Lhote writes the following in his book ‘Note on the origin of Tuareg’s sword blades‘: ”II and III- Genovese marks, but also done in Germany, in Solingen, by Clemens Stamm (circa 1590); in Italy, in Padua, by Pietrus Antonio Furmigano (circa 1565); in Spain, by Juan Martinez from Toledo (circa 1565) and also by Pedro de Belmonte, of which we already spoke. The Tuareg craftsmen, who call that mark ayor, the moon, or télit, have imitated it frequently.” He referred to an illustration which I will try to add. Another photo is added of an arms dealer in Tripoli selling a similar sword. Attached Images