Thread: Damascend / Wootz blade gold markings on a tulwar

Hello
I have just bought what I believe is a very nicely damascend / wootz tulwar with golden and other armorer / maker marks to the blade.
Would appreciate any input on these, as I do not have a clue; I bought the sword as a punt in the belief it was something well above average.
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Cheers
Mark

Hi Mark,

It is indeed a fine example of an Indian tulwar. The steel is not wootz but it appears to be nicely forge-folded "Damascus" steel. Looks to be 18th or 19th century to my eye, probably late 18th century? A fine chopping tulwar with a robust blade profile. Any scabbard included? Nice piece, friend.

Ciao, Jon

Hi Jon
Yes, I am very much looking forward to its arrival, thank you. So many damascend items are modern repros. So many authentic items with Damascus blades are worn to the point the pattern is barely distinguishable. There was no scabbard regrettably.

Do you have any idea of reference books with armorer markings? I would dearly love to know what these ones say. I have heard of a book by Patrick C Donnelly but can find nothing in the normal book seller sense?

Cheers
Mark