A Fine Syrian Khanjar
A Fine Syrian Khanjar
French Mandate of Syria (Syria)
Dated 1340 Hijri (1921 / 1922 Gregorian)
Steel, horn (goat), bone (goat), brass, metal alloy (pewter?), colored inserts (bone, glass?), nacre, iron, fabric
Blade: 15,2cm
Hilt & Blade: 28,6cm
Hilt, Blade, Sheath: 29,2cm
Collection Date: 2021
Collection Number: 410
A fine khanjar from Syria during the beginning years of the French Mandate period. Syrian knives are known for their intricate and beautiful mosaic inlays. This example has a curved double- edged steel blade with two deep central fullers separated by a medial ridge. The hilt is carved from segments goat horn, bone, brass, and a metal alloy, possibly pewter(?). Decorated with brass strips and tacks, red and green circular colored inserts of either dyed bone or glass, (pewter?) stars, and nacre inlay. Circle- dot decoration on the bone segements. Engraved brass pommel. A brass plaque is present on the reverse side, engraved, "Work of Shabaan," and the hijri date of "1340" corresponding to 1921 / 1922 Gregorian. The sheath is a wood base covered by an iron sheet with finely overlayed traditional Syrian designs. Colored fabric is placed at the opening where the blade is inserted. A quality old example, dated and signed by the maker, with an excellent blade, complex hilt inlays, and finely overlayed sheath.