Important Collection of Antique Asian Arms
Lot 25:
A classic form of sword from Ethiopia referred to as a saif, this straight sword is a well-known style of sword introduced in the 19th century and often mounted with importedEuropean blades. Swords were often awarded to citizens by the emperor for merit in battle or other activities and as Ethiopia was independent for a long period of time without having beencolonized by any of the European powers until the 1930s, there is a profusion of swords fromImperial period Ethiopia. This example in the Schmiedt Collection is of typical form with a handle of classic form with a mirrored flared pommel and crossguard with a tubular cross section.The blade of this sword is single edged and likely made by Wilkinson, a famous English sword maker, and which exported many blades to Ethiopia during the period of Menelik II (1885-1913), who was also known as the Lion of Judah. This blade crisply decorated in the fullers with floral designs typical of the period and with a deeply stamped Lion of Judah motif at the ricasso.A group of these blades with similar Amharic inscriptions and designs can be seen in early 20th century Wilkinsons sword catalog.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 37" Blade Length : 31 1/4" References:1. Stone, G. C. (1934). A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms andArmor in All Countries and in All Times. Mineola NY: Dover Publications.2. Spring, Christopher (1993). African arms and armour. British Museum Press.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at [email protected]
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