The pommel type being referred to is usually seen on the arm knive of the Tebu of N. Africa if I remember correctly, and honestly, this sword doesn't look like a kaskara to me in anything but general shape.
Many Muslim blades contain writings and verses from the Koran, occasionally the name of the smith and/or owner as well, but on this one it appears as if the entire blade is covered, right up to the edge, which is why I asked about an edge....on a sword used as a weapon, the inlaid writing would seem likely to have been worn off a little each time the piece was sharpened.
Tom's question about the rings for hanging from a baldric are also pertinent, as it could possibly show the difference between a valuable antique and a cobbled together tourist piece that was being passed off.
As I said, I find this piece interesting because of the many unusual qualities, but also just a little suspicious as well.
If that is a purportedly recent aquisition, even the rust could be an indicator as it's highly unlikely that a tribesman would allow it to fall into such a state...rust can indicate much more than just age.
As to whether the Tebu use or used any type of sword themselves, I honestly don't know, but even here, while the shape is correct, I've never seen one with the pommel covered in leather, with it usually being bare iron/steel on the arm knives and the hilt proper wrapped in leather.
At this stage, I hope that you didn't tie up too much in it.
Mike
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