Arab Saif sword

Overall length
92 cm

Blade length
77 cm, width: 2,8 cm

Blade thickness
4,5 mm near the forte

Materials
steel, iron, black horn, silver,

Dating
Oman - Zanzibar, 19th C.

Presented is an unusual Arab sword, also known as a Saif. Often confused with a Moroccan Nimcha because the hilt closely resembles the typical Nimcha, but despite this similarity, this sword is to be situated in the South Arabian peninsula, more precisely the island of Zanzibar in the 19th C. The (probably) European curved single edged blade with two fullers measures 77 cm. The grip is skillfully carved from a solid piece of black horn with a silver collar at the base. The hilt differs from a Moroccan Nimcha in that it slitghtly bends, the knuckle guard is 'S' shaped instead of an 'L' shape. The pommel is adorned with a turtle that suffered damage from refitting the blade. Total length 92 cm. Condition is fair with some color staines to the hilt, Some missing inlay decorations on the hilt and overall wear of age and use. No scabbard.

LITERATURE

For similar swords see Robert hales, ISLAMIC AND ORINTAL ARMS AND ARMOR Page 238 , Fig 590

- Charles Buttin, 'Catalogue de la collection d'armes anciennes européennes et orientales', plate XXX., fig. 1004

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