A Fine Ottoman Syrian Khanjar

A Fine Ottoman Syrian Khanjar
Ottoman Syria (Syria)
Early 20th century (ca.1900)
Steel, bone, horn, brass, lead or pewter, cotton
Blade: 12,1cm
Hilt & Blade: 24,8cm
Hilt, Bade, Sheath: 28cm
Collection Date: 2021
Collection Number: 249

A fine khanjar from Syria during the Ottoman Empire period. Syrian knives are known for their intricate and beautiful mosaic inlays. This example has a curved double- edged steel blade with a center ridge. Hilt carved from segments of goat horn and bone with circle- dot motifs. Inlays include brass strips, lead or pewter stars, and nails with a brass pommel. Two brass plaques on the front face engraved in two segments of Arabic script with a verse from the Quran (11:88). "My Success Comes Only from Allah", with the reverse face brass plaque engraved, "Work by Dawud" (Arabic for David).

The sheath is a wood base, covered by iron mounts in traditional silver damascene overlay joined by floral pattern fabric. Two iron baldric rings are attached. Beautiful work of early Syrian craftsmanship and a quality example from the Ottoman Empire era. Very similar examples dated to 1899 - 1901. This is likely the oldest Syrian khanjar in the collection.

Photo 9: Unknown