Ariel, my vote is for sham wootz.
A bit too bold for shear steel, in my opinion. Wether Anosov's hand - an inteligent guess without any markings or similar references.
-
The similar linear pattern can be seen on this kilij:
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...highlight=pala
especially at the base of the blade (3rd and 6th pictures from the top). Even though it has some mechanical appearance, it is unmistakenly wootz.