Shashka for comments

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by Jim McDougall

Excellent link Ibrahiim! and this shows the complexity of these ethnic groups in these regions. Actually the Kalash people are linked to the Nuristani (Kafirs) by the same polytheistic religion and in degree with other traditions similar. The tradition of the ancestry to Alexander seems more to similarities to aspects of Greek culture but cannot be proven genetically. Still these groups are fascinating anthropologically as they are so culturally isolated in the regions they occupy.

The fact that this sword seems connected to them and reflecting such a confluence of the symbolic motifs associated with them borne on a sword of the surrounding culture makes this weapon unique indeed

Salaams Jim ~ I have to say that I think the writing style is Georgian or Armenian. I have looked at the decorative floral Saz leaf which is correctly identified as Turkish by Martin Lubojacky (they must have sold 2 copies at least as I have one) though it is not only Turkish as I have seen tiles from Persia decorated with similar form as the Iznik.

I call upon Ariel for his expert view on the script in the cartouche.

Regards,
Ibrahiim al Balooshi.