Takouba Sword, Modified Western 16th Century Blade, Antique Mount.

This takouba sword is old, the blade is a Solingen manufacture dating from the 16th century. The mount probably dates from the middle of the 19th century, and in any case before 1900. The weapon therefore has nothing to do with the tourist manufactures of the second half of the 20th century. It comes from the central Sahara, northern region of Agadez.
It is extremely rare to come across a Takouba sword with the forging characteristics of this one these days. Indeed, if the blade is initially that of a strong Germanic cavalry sword forged in Solingen in the 16th century, the modified profile of a very old type is practically never seen:
BLADE: with two edges, of complex section: Initially, over the first 25 cm, the edges are almost parallel, then the blade becomes thinner over the next 25 cm, up to the narrowest part of the body of the blade. Then it widens again to about 18 cm, then narrows again to the narrowest part right near the tip, which ends by widening into a sort of small racket. This shape is not the result of repairs to the edge, but corresponds to a desired profile, as can be seen by examining the longitudinal traces that follow each edge. It is very rare for a blade to have retained this original profile with two hollows and an intermediate convex part ("belly").
As on many Solingen blades of this period, there are 3 thin longitudinal grooves on each face over the first 25 cm near the handle. And at the end of the grooves the classic opposing crescent moons, typical of Germanic manufactures of the period.
Oxidation marks on both faces, which do not devalue the general appearance, but contribute to giving a certain cachet called "patina" to the weapon.
Blade length = 82 cm, width near the guard 4.8 cm, thickness near the guard 3.6 mm. Balance point of the blade at 15 cm from the guard, which is normal for a cavalry sword.
MOUNTING: it is the classic cross guard in sheet iron covered with leather, then the cylindrical grip covered with leather, and the flattened pommel in sheet iron, topped with a diamond in chiseled brass, then a copper washer and a smaller one on which the tang of the blade is riveted.
SCABBARD: it is in leather, in good condition except for the lower end or iron chape which is missing.
Rich geometric decoration, and near the mouth of the scabbard, tinned iron bracelet cut with geometric holes which reveal the green and red leather bottom, typically regional.
The scabbard having dried over time, it is difficult to push the blade in completely: the last 2 cm are forcing. It can be achieved by oiling, but I do not recommend trying to force this scabbard.

It is therefore in conclusion a beautiful ethnic object, at the antipodes of tourist productions. The quality of the blade and the antiquity are clearly superior to the majority of takouba swords that are usually encountered.
Ref 2Y-08XX
Shipping costs France 20€, Europe 30 €