950€
Zanzibari Saif
19th century
Overall length
100 cm
Blade length
84 cm
Materials
steel, iron, black horn, silver,
Dating
Oman - Zanzibar, l19th C.
Oman - Zanzibar, 19th C.
Here we have an interesting 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 late 18th or early 19th C. The European double-edged straight broad blade (probably German) with central fuller measures 84 cm is and dates from the 17th century. Clipped tip. The grip is skillfully carved from a solid piece of black horn with a silver collar at the base and dito “star” inserted in the pommel. 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. Total length 100 cm. Very good condition with very nice patina to the blade. No scabbard. According to Charles Buttin these swords can be dated to the 18th century.
LITERATURE
- Charles Buttin, 'Catalogue de la collection d'armes anciennes européennes et orientales', plate XXX., fig. 999, 998, 997, 996
Price:
950€
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