D&L Kaskara #2
 

Here's another Kaskara from Lonna and Dave's collection.

This kaskara seems to be unique, to me anyway because of the engraving
on one end of the crossguard. It is engraved backwards and says "ALI", with
an Islamic date of 1311 (1893). Apparently it was used to seal documents
with sealing wax. Has anyone seen this before on a kaskara? Now whenever
i buy, or am able to handle a kaskara, i always check to see if there is any
engraving on the end of the guard. I'm sure that this can't be the only one.
Dave.

Yeah theres one in the fernch book splendeur darmes orientale that has that seal on the end of the guard. actually that book has a section on great Sudanese arms.

Ward: Yes, I just looked it up and indeed both quillons are engraved. It
amazes me that they can do all of this engraving in such a small space. Not
only do the engraving, but to do it backwards too. I wonder, since both dates are so close if this could be someone of rank who might have served in
Ali Dinar's army?.........Dave.