Here is an interesting sword, which heralded the evolution of
more complex hilts. It is believed to be from the late 14th century - early 15th
century; the Arabic inscription was made 1432. The sword was part of an annual tribute
from the King of Cyprus to the Sultan of Egypt, hence the inscription. It has the
inventory number IX 950. It has a length of 1041 mm (41") long, with a blade-length
of 864 mm (34"). The sword weighs a mere 765 gram (1 lb 11 oz) and is very
manoeuvreable. This sword is described on p.204 in Records of the Medieval Sword by
Ewart Oakeshott.
Close-up of the hilt.
Close-up of the other side of the
hilt.
Close-up of the point.