MOROCCAN SAIF SWORD WITH 18TH C. EUROPEAN TALISMANIC BLADE

This very good Moroccan saif dates to the mid-1800s, and is mounted with a 74 cm. long 18th c. European talismanic blade, engraved on both sides with crescent moons, suns in splendor, and various talismanic symbols. Blade retains its sharp edge and shows a has a nice uniform patina, with signs of old cleanings and carrying wear. Grip is made of indigenous hardwood, hilt is very nicely decorated with silver koftgari through-out, making it one of the better antique examples that a collector will encounter. Sword is light, fast, with a nice balance. An excellent Maghreb sword of the type carried by the Barbary Coast pirates.