Daggers such similar to this example date back as far as the 3rd century B.C.E. in the Caucasus region, and have remained a popular sidearm nearly to the present day. This example was likely manufactured in the mid-19th century, bearing many similarities to an example in the MET, which is dated A.H. 1234 (1818-1819 C.E.). This example as well as the one in the MET have similar maker's marks/proofs on the blade which consist of a sunken spade/onion shape, the one on this example being illegible further than that. This khanjali measures 22 1/8 inches overall, with a 16 1/4 inch spearpoint blade that is 2 3/8 inches wide for most of its length. There are a series of small fullers centered on each side of the blade and distinct Damascene patterns are visible along this spine on each side. There are two panels on each side of the blade with gilt backgrounds, three with floral vine designs and one with what appears to be Arabic characters. The hilt is extensively silver plated with more floral motifs which are blued to contrast, and the grip is wire wrapped. Includes a leather scabbard with metal fittings, many of which are silver plated with floral and vine motifs to match the hilt. Additionally it appears to have had a period repair or patch applied to the inner surface, showing a mismatched piece of leather spliced in. Provenance: The Dr. Gerald Klaz Collection

Very good, the blade showing mostly a bright grey patina and strong traces of the gilt finish, the silver on the hilt showing an attractively aged patina overall, and the wire wrapping on the grip remaining tight. The scabbard is fine with the previously mentioned repair (see above) and a similarly attractively aged patina on the metal fittings.