Takouba Blade Markings

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Edster

To my eyes the semi-circle looks above the surface of the blade; could be shadowing, and not below the surface as a stamp. Could just be my eyes and the photograph. An indented stamp is a typical mark, but a raised inlay would seem special.

That truly is interesting Ed, I dont have the sword handy right now so cant say for sure, but if this were raised I would have noted it as that would be incredibly unusual. I cannot say I have ever seen such an application. How would this be carried out on a European blade long after original production?