Recently received an older meat cleaver from my 88 year old mother who said it had belonged to one of her parents. Not sure of the age but it could be anywhere from 1890 to 1950. There are no markings on the blade which is full tang and it is the same thickness along the entire length. I am especially interested in the finish of the blade. It cleaned right up and I have only buffed it with a cotton towel. There are a series of random patterns that seem t be etched into the metal of the blade. Please see the attached images for more detail.
Any help in determining the age and or the cause of the blade appearance would be appreciated.
Any help in determining the age and or the cause of the blade appearance would be appreciated.