This is a masterfully crafted example of a Caucasian style qama dagger, also commonly referred to as "Cossack" daggers, due to the famous horsemen regularly carrying them. It measures 17 inches overall and a 9 3/4 inch spear point blade with a double fuller on both sides that runs approximately 3/4 of the length of the blade. The blade has been extensively inlaid with gold Arabesque floral patterns on the ricasso and bordering the fullers. These gold inlaid patterns continue on the bolsters of the grip and on the fittings of the scabbard. The grip appears to be carved from antique walrus ivory. The hardwood scabbard is wrapped in a green baize Provenance: The Dr. Gerald Klaz Collection

Very fine, the blade showing a mostly bright grey patina with some scattered darker spotting and a few very small patches of light surface pitting, retaining nearly all of the gold inlay. The grip is also very fine showing an attractive lightly aged tone and some scattered light handling marks. The scabbard is fine, most of the baize remains showing extensive wear and nearly all of the gold inlay remains on the fittings. A beautiful example of a Caucasian qama dagger!