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Originally Posted by Jim McDougall
I'm very much with Stu on this, and this seems to be likely something innovatively fashioned in Yemeni or Hadhramati regions. I would 'guess' low grade silver fabricating this pastiche, recalling other silver repousse hilts from many remounted sayf.
The demonstrably crude inscribed Arabic type script and the six point stars (star of Solomon, an Islamic symbol as well as other) seem intended to intimate a better quality blade. The elephant probably loosely intended to suggest Indian source for blade, as these were highly regarded in Arabia.
Most interesting piece from dynamic and intriguing regional circumstances of perhaps 60 or more years ago.
The star (of David, or Solomon) was used on British blades as a surround for a proof slug, begun by Wilkinson late 1850s, but contrary to suggestions never had Jewish nor Masonic connotation. It represents varied interpretation of transposed triangles, and was well known in very early Islamic contexts and often to signify quality and or other significant symbolism.
Coins are not a good indicator of date nor provenance on swords' elements or mounts as these were often used as decorative and talismanic devices regardless of their monetary value. Many coins such as thalers, pesos, and others were used on hilts as pommel cap decorations etc.
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Jim,
As always, thank you for your informed feedback
I appreciate your (and Stu and Bob's) willingness to take the time to share your thoughts. I collect so that I may learn, and the members of this forum have proven to be great teachers.
Best,
-Rob
Ps- I'm still curious to hear more opinions and learn more about this piece....any pictures of something similar being worn?