Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Andrew · 22nd October 2005, 06:50 PM

I don't think there's any doubt about the Burmese origin of that koftgari. Such small panels at the forte have become so common they are almost pedestrian, and ubiquitous on tourist swords from the region. Older, finer swords and knives generally have more extensive, heavier and fancier koftgari, but I've seen some very nice blades with small simple panels like this.

The sword itself is interesting. At 24", my theory is this is a swagger stick produced locally for either the general British trade, or perhaps for a specific individual. The leather seems a European or military affectation in this context.

22nd October 2005, 06:50 PM	#6
Andrew Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: USA Posts: 1,725	I don't think there's any doubt about the Burmese origin of that koftgari. Such small panels at the forte have become so common they are almost pedestrian, and ubiquitous on tourist swords from the region. Older, finer swords and knives generally have more extensive, heavier and fancier koftgari, but I've seen some very nice blades with small simple panels like this. The sword itself is interesting. At 24", my theory is this is a swagger stick produced locally for either the general British trade, or perhaps for a specific individual. The leather seems a European or military affectation in this context.