[Sajen]

Originally Posted by Bob A

I'm still somewhat unsure of the nature of the surface. My experience with rust is that it is a pitting phenomenon, rather than an accretion, which seems to be what I'm seeing here.

I acknowledge the often blackened surfaces of some African blades, but I do not possess any like that, except possibly this example, so I'm not in a position to speak with any authority.

I am nearly sure that we see here patinated rust and not any blackened surface, it's the same on handle and blade, this is what let me be sure.

Originally Posted by Bob A

It's my understanding that there are alternating viewpoints on cleaning blades, perhaps especially African blades. Some prefer total scrub down to the bare metal; some prefer using the contrasting surfaces to heighten the drama, so to speak, of the design. Mangbetu axes fall into this category for me; I do prefer the highlighting effect of an artful partial cleaning, though I have no idea what those who originated the artifact would consider proper.

Yes, there are different viewpoints, I think special between US and European collectors. For me it's equal from where a blade coming, I prefer a clean blade. All rust is active, red is more fast as black one but oxidation is an active process. It don't need to grind it down to the bare metal, you need to find the correct way.
Look to some of my old threads and decide by self!
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ighlight=congo
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ighlight=congo
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ighlight=congo
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ighlight=congo
You see by all provided threads before and after pictures, so you can decide which state you like more. It's the same with your two loop daggers, to which one you like to look with more enjoy!?

Originally Posted by Bob A

For the blade in question, I'm sure partial cleaning of the loop handle would serve to bring out the elegant pattern, but once that is done, I imagine the blade itself would need to be cleaned in its entirety - it does not seem to lend itself to "highlighting".

Agree complete with you!

Originally Posted by Bob A

Is there any particular solvent that would be most useful in removing "patinated rust", should I come to a decision to do so?

I've used for the blades in the provided links sandpaper in different grain size with WD 40.

Regards,
Detlef