Hey SM, I got to believe your description is correct, especially from the certain types described by Murdock. You may find it interesting that some of the Scandinavian Artic area bows also had "deflexed" outer limbs. I'm not exactly sure but believe the experts think it has something to do with the mechanics of wooden bows in extreme cold conditions. The method used in handling the recurve bend area (bridged, plain, or transverse wrapped also indicate you are on the right track.
Just one guy's opinion though. Aint research fun?
?
rich