Regarding Alan Maisey’s footnote,
The practical reason for this angle (Condong Leleh) was discussed in this thread (
http://vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=5174) started by Michel on Sept. 3, 2007. Although I fenced sabre, I know that the blade angle on foils was considered so advantageous that the judges would rigorously check and limit the angle amount before and during matches.
Sincerely,
RobT