Jeremy V. Krause wrote: |
I didn't even think about making a SECOND order with Patrick Barta when my name comes up. It's unfortunate but I just can's see myself parting with more than $5000.00 at one given point which would invariably be the case if I was to commission two swords. |
Indeed. The main reason why I agreed to change the current order to a celtic sword was mainly an issue of cost. The price was simply more doable for me right now. Even then it neccessitated the sale of another fine piece from my collection.
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I say this is unfortunate because this will likely by my only chance to abtain one of his works and I believe that really only Mr. Barta and Peter Johnsson have the most sufficient knowledge of my period of interest to make the highest eschelon of high middle age swords. There seem to be a few more smiths out there with a keen knowledge of renessaince weapon so folks interested in this period should consider themselves lucky.. |
Unfortunately I have to agree with you. I've seen many other custom makers who think they have a grasp on the medieval sword but really don't. They don't seem to put as much study into swords of that period as they do later compound-hilted designs, or even earlier viking era designs, etc. They don't see them as visually interesting and I've had more than one maker tell me, "There just isn't much going on with those swords." Well, there's quite a bit going on there, it's just more subtle than the more outwardly complex stuff. This attitude is unfortunately reflected in the quality of the product. This is the main reason I'm such a big proponent of Albions work. The swords may not be unique custom creations but at least they "get" those aspects.
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Plus, I love inlay- especially in the blade and I have strong opinions regarding what I feel is a dearth of this technique in modern reproductions, including custom pieces. Patrick has assured me- and I fully trust that he has the know how to execute iron inlay in the blade of the sword I will commission. |
I would love to see more correct blade inlay too. I'd love to have Peter Johnsson make me a sword similar in design to the Albion Reeve, but with the mass of my Big Johnsson, decorated with perhaps an Ulfberht inlay on the blade and some commensurate inlay on the guard and pommel, all topped off with a tooled leather scabbard. Yum, yum.
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I wait in anticipation to see your custom axe! |
As do I. It should be very soon now!