Стилистични особености на Видинските ятагани
Stylistic Characteristics of the Vidin Yataghans

Summary/Abstract: The objects of the current study are seven yatagans from the Bulgarian National Revival section of the Regional History Museum in Vidin. The inscriptions on their encrusted blades date them back to the period between 1723/1724 and 1870/1871. The paper focuses on the specific features of the yataghans in order to show their differences from other yataghans that were made around the country through comparative analysis of specimens from various workshops and manufacturers. In addition, it offers an explanation of the decorative aspect of this type of cold weapon, on the one hand, as to the technique of the making of the blades and their adjoining elements, and on the other, the symbolic meaning of various motifs of the stylised ornaments. Our observation is based on different studies in the field as well as the experience of modern yataghan makers aspiring to attain the level of skill and perfection of their predecessors. The photo materials are published in the appendix. This analysis will help clarify the reason why the Vidin yataghans have been set in a separate group.

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