Imperial Russian Silver, Niello and Gilt Kindjal - Vladikavkaz, Ossetia, 1908-1917. The straight double-edged steel blade features a pronounced central fuller. The silver hilt and scabbard are richly decorated with finely engraved floral ornament, niello and extensive gilt highlights, with large flower- form bosses to the grip. The scabbard is exceptionally ornate, combining dense scrolling niello decoration with gilded engraved panels and a sculptural terminal. A striking example of the highly developed North Caucasian silversmithing tradition of the final years of the Russian Empire. Blade: 10.25 in. Overall: 16 in.