Lebanese Khanjar
Lebanese Khanjar
Lebanese Arab
Jezzine, Lebanon
Second quarter of the 20th century (ca. 1925 - 1945)
Steel, horn, brass, plastic, wood, iron
Blade: 14,3cm
Hilt & Blade: 25,4cm
Hilt, Blade, Sheath: 27cm
Collection Date: 2025
Collection Number: 468
Ex. American Art Market (2025)
A khanjar from the South Lebanese city of Jezzine, widely known for their manufacture of cutlery. Many of their wares incorporate horn or bone handles carved in the form of birds and fish styling. These knives are particularly noted for their intricate and beautiful colorful inlays. This example was produced around the second quarter of the 20th century.
The curved double- edged steel blade has a twin central fuller spanning nearly to the acute point. The hilt carved from horn decorated with brass inserted plaques of fish on both faces and brass engraved plaques on each side. A series of blue, red, and white plastic circles are inlaid in flower pedal designs throughout the hilt. Brass cross guard with colored plastic circle inlays and a brass flared pommel at the base.
The sheath of a wooden interior covered in brass sheet. Heavily stippled in traditional Levant style, on the reverse, stippled "Jezzine." Attached are two iron suspension rings. A good quality Jezzine knife.