Quote Originally Posted by Ryan Ross View Post
...and what are those tacks on the handle made from? They look red.

Also, I know sgians of this period are always made with a hidden tang (as are most modern sgians and dirks, as well), but do they tend to use a two piece handle construction (glued together sandwich style), or do they tend to have a one piece construction with the space for the tang drilled out?

Because I see a seam there that's either two pieces of wood glued together, or from moulding (in plastic); sorry, but when they labled that thing as early 19th century, they lost all credibility in my eyes.
A quick and dirty image enhancement yields the following:



I think the "seam" you are seeing is the end of the carved face.
The studs to appear to be small cabochons of garnet or similar.

My knowledge of Scottish art & craft is certainly no rival for others here, but I'd say it was Victorian based on the silver work.

ith: