Post by LongBlade on Nov 26, 2010 3:35:28 GMT -6
ADACH publishes source book on “Arabian Swords”
Pictorial book shades light on the history of Arabian swords, detailed stages of making one of most iconic symbols of Arabian history.
Middle East Online
11/25/2010
www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=42705
ABU DHABI – The National Library of Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) published a book entitled “Arabian Swords” in collaboration with Alwaraqoon W.L.L. in Kingdom of Bahrain.
The pictorial book shades light on the history of Arabian swords and the detailed stages of making one of the most iconic symbols of Arabian history.
Publishing the ArabicEnglish book comes as part of ADACH efforts to enrich the library with reference books on Arabs heritage that reflects the deep roots of the culture in the region.
The book point out that sword is one of the most regal weapons of all time. It is the embodiment of every shining weapon ever raised high in defense or offence.
With its lethal capabilities and fastidious accuracy, the sword was a legacy; an earthly claim to a kingdom, a proof of heredity, a talisman of belonging. Regarded as more than just a tool, once upon time, the sword was a friend and constant companion through thick and thin. Following that era of grandeur, with the encroaching technological advancement, the sword became obsolete in battle and was instead regarded as an aesthetic piece of history by avid collectors, museums and institutions the world over.
Due to its intricate designs and bejeweled form, the sword became a much sought after historical artifact, as did its trade. The makers of swords have dwindled noticeably over the years, with very few masters remaining, and even fewer upcoming masters to perpetuate the ancient craft.
The deferent parts of a sword are custom-made by hand in a process that takes anywhere from weeks to months, depending upon the material, jewels and inscriptions required. The hilt, the blade, the scabbard and sheath are all individually crafted, usually by several masters and seldom by one grand master. The secrets of the trade are passed on from a master to his son or chosen successor, relegating the art of sword forging and making an endangered craft.
The book is a journey through the ancient corridors that still survive in today’s modern world. It is a voyage into the world of swords, where jewels, metals and fabric combine to create the most powerful weapon in days of yore.
ADACH forward note the “In Arabian culture, an object’s importance is measured by the names used to describe it. The sword with its myriad monikers ranks among those objects of high importance lending its qualities to deserving men whose characters are often as bright as sabers, sharp as daggers, and as brave as epees. Several of the sword’s attributes denote its stoicism, dubbing it unequivocal and armor-plated reinforcing its status as symbol of justice and true example of continuity.”
Pictorial book shades light on the history of Arabian swords, detailed stages of making one of most iconic symbols of Arabian history.
Middle East Online
11/25/2010
www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=42705
ABU DHABI – The National Library of Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) published a book entitled “Arabian Swords” in collaboration with Alwaraqoon W.L.L. in Kingdom of Bahrain.
The pictorial book shades light on the history of Arabian swords and the detailed stages of making one of the most iconic symbols of Arabian history.
Publishing the ArabicEnglish book comes as part of ADACH efforts to enrich the library with reference books on Arabs heritage that reflects the deep roots of the culture in the region.
The book point out that sword is one of the most regal weapons of all time. It is the embodiment of every shining weapon ever raised high in defense or offence.
With its lethal capabilities and fastidious accuracy, the sword was a legacy; an earthly claim to a kingdom, a proof of heredity, a talisman of belonging. Regarded as more than just a tool, once upon time, the sword was a friend and constant companion through thick and thin. Following that era of grandeur, with the encroaching technological advancement, the sword became obsolete in battle and was instead regarded as an aesthetic piece of history by avid collectors, museums and institutions the world over.
Due to its intricate designs and bejeweled form, the sword became a much sought after historical artifact, as did its trade. The makers of swords have dwindled noticeably over the years, with very few masters remaining, and even fewer upcoming masters to perpetuate the ancient craft.
The deferent parts of a sword are custom-made by hand in a process that takes anywhere from weeks to months, depending upon the material, jewels and inscriptions required. The hilt, the blade, the scabbard and sheath are all individually crafted, usually by several masters and seldom by one grand master. The secrets of the trade are passed on from a master to his son or chosen successor, relegating the art of sword forging and making an endangered craft.
The book is a journey through the ancient corridors that still survive in today’s modern world. It is a voyage into the world of swords, where jewels, metals and fabric combine to create the most powerful weapon in days of yore.
ADACH forward note the “In Arabian culture, an object’s importance is measured by the names used to describe it. The sword with its myriad monikers ranks among those objects of high importance lending its qualities to deserving men whose characters are often as bright as sabers, sharp as daggers, and as brave as epees. Several of the sword’s attributes denote its stoicism, dubbing it unequivocal and armor-plated reinforcing its status as symbol of justice and true example of continuity.”