Middle East, Yemen or Saudi Arabia, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An impressive ceremonial dagger known as a jambiya: a dramatically curved steel blade, wooden handle inlaid with gold coins, brass wirework, and a stunning sheath. The hide sheath is covered on the frontside with intricate gilt-copper filigree patterns and velvet cloth. Hammered and riveted to the wood handle are two 1914 British gold half sovereigns, the reverse of both is visible featuring Saint George. The jambiya indicates the status and wealth of the man that carries it - such knives were worn as ornamental pieces of status. Besides the quality of craftsmanship, the half sovereign coins had a gold quality of 91% (equivalent to 21K+) and were worth half a pound in 1914, and today with inflation, these each had a purchasing power equivalent to about 65 pounds (77 US dollars)! Size in sheath: 13" L x 7" W (33 cm x 17.8 cm); blade: 9" L x 2.6" W (22.9 cm x 6.6 cm).

Provenance: private New Haven, Connecticut, USA collection

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#176231

Some stains and discoloration to sheath hide. Softening and abrasions to filigree overlay on sheath and inlay on handle, and areas of green patina. Some wear to red velvet. Patina and dark toning on steel blade with chip to blade tip. Wear to wood handle, but great patina from age and use.