Witham sword recreation from Kevin Cashen

Joss

Joss

Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
7,353
So, I've been pretty quiet for the last few years, for a variety of reasons. However, I have remained interested in the field of custom knives and edged artifacts. Recently my interest in Western-style swords has come to the forefront. When Kevin told me last May he might have a spot available I took advantage of the opportunity to discuss a sword commission. As I have very little in my collection in terms of Western swords, I was pretty open minded, which is sometimes the best situation to be in when discussing a project. I wanted a 1-hand Western sword, with a double-edged, symmetrical profile. We had a couple back and forth discussing various options, including a type XIV. However, when I asked Kevin for his input he suggested we look at the Witham sword, which is at the British museum. It's a Type X sword, and you can see it here:

http://www.britishmuseum.org/resear...spx?assetId=296785001&objectId=36133&partId=1

I loved this idea. This is an awe-inspiring sword, which retains some characteristics from previous generations. Kevin felt that the inscription was a bit much, and I agree with that. On my side, I suggested a different pommel shape and we settled on a Brazil nut shape. We agreed on materials (L6 for the blade, wrought iron for the fittings), and we were go.

The sword was finished in November and I asked Kevin to ship it to Jim for him to do his usual outstanding photography work. The blade is 32" and the sword overall is 38".

Cashen_161226-XL.jpg


Cashen_161226B-X2.jpg
 
Very nice work as per the usual with Mr. Cashen. It is cool that you got him to do a medieval sword again. He has been doing rapiers for a long time it seems like. At the last couple of blade shows he had no swords at all.
 
There is soooooo much going on in a piece like this, and Kevin's painstaking attention to detail, I'm sure, refuses to allow him to miss any of them. Gorgeous piece!!! Awe inspiring, in fact. Thanks for sharing - just don't see enough of his stuff on here.
 
I'll take it!:p

Beautiful. Inspiring. Thanks for posting.

Darcy:)
 
Great choice in pommel shape, Joss. It's like a beautiful pommel and tidy crossguard with prominent, fang-like long fullers jutting out, surrounded by a perfect blade. The deep twin fullers (four total on the sword!) really stand out.
 
What a gratifying project. Thanks Joss!

This is REALLY well-built, but you knew that. What was so notably impressive was the lightness of the blade (thin and fullers!) as well as the sharpness and impeccably satin rubbed finish.

The quillons have facets and are simple yet engaging. Add in a big pommel with wrought iron and it balanced keenly. It felt VERY volatile!

The leatherwork speaks for itself. Masterful.

Swords are HARD to photograph. I simply need everything twice as large for a 'knife' twice the size. :)

Double the satisfaction, too. :D

Good thread.

Coop
 
Wow. Envious of that one.

It is satisfying to see western swords get such meticulous treatment.

I love eastern swords, Japanese, Chinese, Etc, Etc, but every bit as much enjoy a lovely western design that looks functional and beautiful.
 
I saw Kevin post this up on the ABS web site and enjoyed it immensely.
I really like the double fuller and the matching spines in the sheath.
The whole thing rocks.
 
I love fullers and it has two! Not only is it a great looking blade but the wrought iron gives it a look that makes it easy to imagine some noble knight carrying it into battle. Thank you for sharing

Red
 
The only other maker that I can think of who consistently comes close to Kevin's well crafted blades, excellent handle work and masterful scabbards with dedication to a wide range of styles is Vince Evans.

This is a sweet looking sword....bet it handles like a dream.

You gonna cut with it?

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
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