LOTR: Anduril
Anduril, “Flame of the West”, was a prominent sword in Tolkiens
popular Lord of the Rings trilogy. This blade dates back to the first age.
Andurils’ parent, Narsil, was forged and used in many battles and once broken,
its’ shards were used to cut the finger and the Ring from Sauron in the
battle of the Last Alliance Between Men and Elves. The shards of the sword were
then kept in Rivendell as an heirloom to the real king of Gondor; to be forged
anew in prophesied final battles between good and evil. As such, Aragorn
wielded Anduril in the battles of the Pelenor field and before the Black Gates
of Morder.
The creators of this sword have taken a typical approach to its’
appearance. Unlike interpretations with Elvish blades, the creators
thought men would be more direct, and feel less inclination to create beauty in
a weapon. Therefore Anduril looks much like a medieval weapon. The
hilt has a heavy metal pommel, which like medieval weapons could be used to stun
an enemy. The cross-guard is simple and unadorned. Anduril contains
the tensile strengthening ‘fuller’ feature, which creates a thinner area in the
center running the length of the blade. As such, Anduril is lighter due to
less metal, yet retains its’ strength like the ‘I’ beam used in building
construction.
Anudril is a classic blade. The Anduril blade is a wonderful piece
of craftsmanship. The appearance of Anduril speaks of power, and a kingly
presence. Such blades have been best displayed in conditions and rooms
that have a heavier more rustic presence; rooms with stone, and rooms with ample
wall or flooring made of natural woods. In any event you simply cannot go
wrong with a purchase of Anduril – truly a “Flame” in any home to be admired and
respected.