Unusual Kaskara Sword with 18 C. European Blade

Early Arab swords had straight wide blade. This form survived well into the 20th C. and well presented in the Sudanese Kaskara swords.  Earlier Kaskara swords were equipped with imported European blades. Local made blade appeared later and are very common these days.

The Kaskara shown here employ a late 18 C. European blade with wide central fuller and two narrow side fullers. The blade forte is delicately engraved in a very European style, with a monogram, partially hidden under the cross guard langet. The hilt shape is a bit peculiar. Massive brass cross guard and a top brass collar and pommel disk. The grip is bound with leather strips (later).

Blade 33 1/2 inches (85 cm) long. Total length 38 1/2 inches (98 cm) . Good condition. The engraving is partially worn on one face of the blade. Small solder repair on the cross guard.