A large and exceptional Kurdish Khanjar.
This stunning example measures 57cms long in its sheath. Out it measures just under 52cms long. The blade length is 33.5cms long and 6cms wide across the base.
The large hilt is a single piece of carved Walrus ivory, now showing a pleasing gold age patina. It measures approx 18cms tall, 7.5cms wide and 3cms thick.
The blade is a very high quality watered steel type that displays fine patterns throughout despite being out of polish.
The pronounced medial ridge separates gold cartouches found on each side of the forte. To one side there are two cartouches with gold floral applications, to the reverse is gold script noting an individual's name and a date much older than is typically associated with these types of Khanjar, perhaps a tribute.
The scabbard is very unique in that the silverwork is pierced, an aspect very rarely seen on Ottoman period weaponry.
Two each side is three pierced with three large medallions showing intricate overlapping designs and the Ottoman Tulips. There are many other non pierced medallions covering the sheaths surfaces but of particular importance is the second medallion down from the throat being Islamic script encircling a Tughra stamp on one side and a Tulip on the other.
A large and important Kurdish Khanjar of high status, with a very unique scabbard styling and script.
