10-18-2003, 11:03 PM
If i was to get one of the accurrately copied and more finely crafted swords I would be most excited about the craftsmanship. In Europe the composition of the blade was never really a matter of art/craftsmanship. probably the best steel around before the renisiance was from Toledo but even its qualities were more an accident of production methods rathers than clever design.
So to me it seems you really arent losing anything just because our modern steel is better proccessed.
On the other hand if for I was looking at reproductions of Japanese swords, most of what I would care about would be in the blade - how many folds, what 2 metals were used, was the edge really tempered etc.
Thats because the art of the Japanese sword maker started there.
Im not saying your view is unreasonable(there is probably no reason behind any of this sword collecting/making). It just seems to focused on a sticking point that is rather particular.
So to me it seems you really arent losing anything just because our modern steel is better proccessed.
On the other hand if for I was looking at reproductions of Japanese swords, most of what I would care about would be in the blade - how many folds, what 2 metals were used, was the edge really tempered etc.
Thats because the art of the Japanese sword maker started there.
Im not saying your view is unreasonable(there is probably no reason behind any of this sword collecting/making). It just seems to focused on a sticking point that is rather particular.