Ottoman Pala

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by rand

Hey Jim,

Very difficult from the photos' to make an opinion of the blade in question, but it certainly looks to be a period blade and of the period or earlier than the scabbard. Would certainly agree that the gold koftgrari is most llikely a later addition, also am of the opinion it makes little difference to the swords value.

Its surprising how crude the workmanship is on these 18/19th blades are and yet they are in high demand. It makes me wonder what it is we do not know.

Have heard that these swords may have been worn by high ranking officers (generals) for parade or court but have no published text to corroborate this.

Would also keep an open mind in that the Polish swords after the 16th C. may have had influence on the Ottoman swords.


rand

Hi Rand,
Thank you so much for responding, very much appreciated !
Very interesting example you posted from Yucels book, especially that the scabbard and mounts were later additions.
I think this may suggest that older blades might have been remounted, especially if they were important blades as obviously seen with this one.
Do you think that trophy blades might have been remounted in the same manner for presentation and awarded to generals?
I know I have mentioned this before, actually, yesterday, and have still considered it might have some bearing.

All the best and thanks again !
Jim