In defense of the hilt
			 
			 
			
		
		
		
			
			Hi All, 
Perhaps I'm wrong but to me the overall shape of the hilt shows a remarkable degree of grace. I think the crudity is due to the fact that this is a hilt blank, not a finished hilt. From what I can see the blade/hilt combo forms a very elegant and ergonomically functional ensemble. I think whoever mounted blade knew exactly what he was doing and probably intended to finish the hilt. I know if it were mine, I would be (against all my instincts as a caretaker of an historical artifact) sorely tempted to do so. 
Sincerely, 
RobT
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
	 |