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14th December 2023, 07:47 PM | #1 |
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I'm a bit suspicious about that Ivory handle; all those dark flecks in the material make me wonder if it is bone.
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14th December 2023, 09:02 PM | #2 |
Keris forum moderator
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Location: Nova Scotia
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14th December 2023, 11:57 PM | #3 |
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David and Rick, I think the hilt has to be ivory. The carved figure within the finely carved "cage" indicates a solid interior, which is inconsistent with a bony structure.
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15th December 2023, 05:00 AM | #4 |
Vikingsword Staff
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Can I see some examples of ivory that discolors and looks semi porous please?
Could it be mildew perhaps? |
15th December 2023, 02:57 AM | #5 |
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15th December 2023, 03:42 AM | #6 |
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Gav, even less likely to be antler (another form of bone). Antlers have a very "spongy" interior as a result of their rapid growth. This is elephant ivory.
The marks are the result of oil from peoples hands and dirt. Gentle washing with soap and water would remove it (not that I recommend washing it). I've owned a few of these and they all had ivory blades and hilts. This one is a very nice example. |
15th December 2023, 05:14 AM | #7 |
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Thanks gentlemen, yes I'd assumed it was for turning pages as per the European patterns. The item itself is fairly large, roughly 40cm long all up.
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