The hilt of characteristic form, grips retaining much original leather covering and set with silver bosses on the obverse typical of Turkmen work, with faceted steel pommel and guard, the robust heirloom Persian blade wrought of finely-patterned Persian black wootz. In its leather-covered wooden scabbard with steel mounts. As found. The Turkmen represented a bulwark against Imperial Russian expansion into Central Asia during the 19th century. They fought into the 20th century, against Persians, Russians and others. From the collection of a distinguished retired Lt. Colonel in the American Army, acquired while stationed in Afghanistan in 2008-9. Overall length 93.5 cm / 36 3/4". Condition V