A Berber saber?

[Gonzalo G]

Originally Posted by TVV

Gonzalo, you know Central American weapons far better than I do and therefore I will take your word that the above examples are not Central American.
However, would that also include the Carribean islands? I have a so-called "berber" sabre with a characteristic P-shaped hilt and a motto on the blade saying "Para Los Valientes Dominicanos". Certainly not what one would expect on a Riffian sword, even if it used a trade blade.

No, Teodor, my statement does not include the Caribbean islands. I sometimes found very interesting african influences on the Caribbean weapons. The Guanabacoa machete, being a reglamentary weapon for the spanish army overseas, has very deep local influences over the form of the hilt, with a strong african flavour. The inscription on your saber´s blade suggests the possibility of a gift to the dominicanss. The Caribbean area of influence, of course, could include the coastal areas of Central América and Venezuela. But somehow, unless more research, I don´t feel personally this style of weapon as a continental american, but I can be wrong. Construction and decoration are the keys to ID this "Berber saber". How is your saber mounted on the hilt? Like this one? Do you have photos?
Regards

Gonzalo