A very fine example of an early Wootz Kurdish/Turkish Khanjar in 19th century dress.
Measuring 38cms long in its sheath, 35.5cms out and carrying a fine wootz blade that is just over 20cms long, this fine example of a rare knife type remains in excellent condition throughout.
The hilt displays a deep and warm rich glossy patina throughout, which is both very comfortable in hand and pleasing to the eye.
Its blade form is of a known type, typically noted as 18th century, likely crafted in the greater Mosul region of the Middle East.
The sheath is very finely crafted in thick silver which has been decorated in relief and filled with Niello. The style and designs of this silver and Niello work point to Armenian makers, who are famous for such works in the area of Van.
Within the decorative motifs of the Niello surface, to the throat section, a large panoply of arms behind large Turkish flags and a Tughra atop.
If able to identify the Tughra, this would better point to a specific manufacture date of this fine workmanship.
To the lower section of the sheath, or drag, there is a large cliff face scene. Atop sits several buildings, including a Minaret, a flagpole with flag central to the image. Below, simple script reading "Van" in Armenian.
The image of this cliff top fortress could have been one of the many fortresses throughout Turkey/Turkiye, but to our eye and with grateful research insights, given the massive scale of the cliff presented in the image and the perspective used, we believe this is representative of the Castle of Van, hence the makers note beneath the image.
Although not providing a complete panoramic view within the Niello, when viewing modern photos of Castle Van, the perspective of the artwork portrays the minaret, building locations and a representation of the gateway leading in to the castle complex and the contrast from cliff face to green fertile fields with water ways.
A very fine and unique example of a very rare important Khanjar.
