As far as I can relate, this is a kaskara from probably early 1900s, and the blade recalls earlier Solingen forms which were of course well known, and served as examples for workers such as in Kasalla to make their versions. This blade is of the type shown in "Kaskara from Northern Darfur, Sudan" ( Graham Reed, JAAS, Vol.XII #3 March 1987) example LII (p.167).
In Ed's treatise on these swords, one of the most detailed and exceptional reports I have ever read! the form is listed as 'Dukkeri abu Dubban' which has this type central fuller as well as three marks, two of which, the 'lion' and 'cross and orb' are seen here. The third mark seems to be a lily or flower of some sort.
Clearly the lion (resembling the Peter Kull rampant lion) and the cross and orb are native interpretations of these marks from Solingen.
These marks have nothing to do with makers, but more with talismanic and interpretive views in native lore, tradition and folk religion.
The cross and orb, considerably different than Solingen versions, seem to have been regarded by natives as a drum and sticks in some cases, in others a tree.
The geometric designs on the scabbard are well established styles seen on these scabbards, and apparently the wider the scabbard the older (according to Reed).
The leather cords, which seem to vary in number (some with 8 and up to 12) are of wrapped leather and hand free or are occasionally looped through carry rings. These were apparently additional trappings used in fixing the sword to either horse or camel mounts, and while attractive in appearance seem to have had genuine purpose.
This blade seems of early 20th c. and the mounts and scabbard from subsequent refurbishing as was typical with these swords. Leather wrap and the discoid pommel are typical, and reptile hide may have been used in variation, just as varying types of leather in scabbard and mounting straps.
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