Antique Ottoman Turkish Coral & Turquoise Encrusted Ceremonial Dagger 19th C curved gold damascened double-edged steel blade in scabbard 16.2 cm OAL

An unusual antique Ottoman Turkish ceremonial short dagger elaborately decorated with coral and turquoise gemstones encrusted to the fronts (forte) of the hilt and scabbard . The knife has curved gold damascened double-edged steel blade decorated on each face with Islamic type koftgari scrolls. The dagger and sheath dates to the 19th century, perhaps earlier.

The body shells of the hilt and the scabbard are made of white coloured non ferrous metal with a gold coloured finish. The backs are decorated with chased and repousse work of scrolling tendrils, flowers and foliage with a finely punched and matted ground. There is an applied small metal loop for suspension.  

Both the handle grip and the scabbard are covered with ribbed tear drop shaped red or pink corals and small turquoise cabochons. There are 17 corals and 30 turquoise stones. The applied mounts for the gemstones are made of copper with a gilded finish.  

This type of knife is sometimes called a Khanjar or Jambiya or even a bichaq by some collectors and may also be referred to as being from Trabazon.

This is a great-looking and interesting antique decorative item, Ideal for display by a collector of antique daggers, blades and knives.

Condition:
The dagger and scabbard are in good antique condition however, the blade shows some signs of oxidation and the front part of the throat or locket of the scabbard is missing. Some of the stones may possibly be replacements. Please see the images

Dimensions
Blade length 2 7/8 inches ( 7.3cm)
Hilt length 2 3/8 inches (8.3 cm) 
Overall length including Scabbard 6 3/8 inches (16.2 cm)
Weight unpacked 48.1 grammes

References

SALE 7871 Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds 5 October 2010 lot LOT350 - A CORAL AND TURQUOISE INSET GOLD-DAMASCENED DAGGER

https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/Lot/a-coral-and-turquoise-inset-gold-damascened-dagger-5358944-details.aspx

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