Outstanding discussion here!!
Estcrh and Ibrahiim, thank you for the great images and references. These really help in following the talking points here.
I had not thought of these 'Oriental' (collective term used in earlier times to include India, Arabia etc) weapons being produced in Europe, but as has been noted, they certainly were in many cases.
As also mentioned, mail armor, helmets etc were made in England for the Khedive of Egypt's forces.
There was a great demand for 'exotic ' arms and items in Europe, so it does not seem unreasonable that commercial sources would not respond.
In the Sudan, many of the 'souvenier' items including spear heads etc. were produced in Birmingham to supply the souks .
It seems that the tabar was not typically a preference as a weapon, but more often served in parade and ceremonial or court situations.
|