A Fine Ottoman Syrian Khanjar
Ottoman Syria (Syria)
Early 20th century (ca. 1910 - 1925)
Steel, bone, horn, brass, mother-of-pearl, lead, wood, silk
Blade: 14cm
Hilt & Blade: 26,7cm
Hilt, Blade, Sheath: 26,7cm
Collection Date: 2021
Collection Number: 227

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 central ridge. In the center is a small section of cross- hatching that would have had overlay script at one time, now lost.

The hilt is carved from segments of brass, goat horn and bone. Decorated with lead stars, two engraved brass plaques, brass nails, mother -of-pear inlays, and red dyed circular bone inserts. Losses to four of the lead Ottoman stars. The sheath is wood base covered in a decorated brass sheet, with an attached yellow silk tassel hanging from the sheath loop. A quality old example from the earlier part of the 20th century, in very good condition.