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Originally Posted by kai
I'd love to examine #3 in person: I also believe it is hippo but I can't ascertain from the pics wether the mottled appearance is from uneven staining/corrosion/patina or due to some other cause.
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You're most welcome when you are around here! Surely we can discuss more about these hilts and many other things...
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Originally Posted by kai
From the pics, the tip of the beak almost looks like a repair while the rest of the TIZ is obviously fine despite the unusual choice of placing it that close to the edge of the piece - looks like the carver was hoping to avoid including it but ran out of material...
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That was a spot-on; it is indeed a repair. The tip was an ivory piece glued to the beak.
Since this material was dearly prized back then, I believe the carver's intention was to make the most from the chunk of material he got. Rightfully they were skilled artisan as well, as they wouldn't rush the process for $$$, unlike these days.
Regards,
Moshah