Thought some of you custom blade/ forged in fire types might appreciate this. Rumored to have been recovered from a canal in the Netherlands. Either Dutch or German. From around 1580. When steel of this age is left to the elements it develops a black crust coating. Once removed, you can see the original grain of the metal. It exposes how the blacksmith worked the steel to form the shapes and build strength in the blade and bars of the hilt. Items in better condition dont show it. Ground finds are typically worse and falling apart.
A piece missing from the ricasso.
A piece missing from the ricasso.
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