OAKESHOTT TypeXIX Swords

Type XIX was initially believed to be a sword type that emerged only after the 16th century. But two Type XIX swords with Arabic inscriptions overturned this assumption: one bearing a date of 1432, the other dated 1368 for their deposition in the Arsenal at Alexandria. This means the Type XIX existed at least as early as the second half of the 14th century.

Many surviving Type XIX swords bear Arabic inscriptions recording their deposition in the Arsenal at Alexandria.

The characteristics of Type XIX are quite distinct:

• Blade: Broad and flat, with edges running nearly parallel before tapering to a point that terminates suddenly.
  
  
  ^{Credits:The Sword in the Age of Chivalry}
• Cross-section: Flat hexagonal — the faces are flat, with clearly chamfered edges, similar to Type XVIa.
  
  ^{Credits: Sword Buyers Guide}
• Fuller: A narrow, well-moulded fuller in the upper third of the blade. Although not a defining feature, some examples feature two narrow but deep grooves.
• Ricasso: Well-made, approximately 2.5 to 3 inches (6.3–7.6 cm) long.
• Grip: Generally short, designed for single-handed use. However, hand-and-a-half versions also exist.
• Cross-guard: Various forms — from simple straight guards to more complex hilts with finger-rings.
  
  
  ^{COMMON GUARD TYPES——Credits: Sword Buyers Guide}
• Pommel: Predominantly disc-shaped or scent-stopper forms.
  
  ^{COMMON POMMEL TYPES——Credits: Sword Buyers Guid}