Code IN57
This knife is a mystery. It is said to have been acquired in Tunisia, but it is a melding of styles from two widely separated areas. The blade strongly resembles those originating in Albacete, Spain. The hilt is in the style of a Bıįak from Serajevo, Bosnia. It is associated with Ottoman rule so the hilt design was spreadly widelly and copied across the empire. The guard resembles those found throughout the Maghreb in N. Africa.
The quality and workmanship is very good. The thick curved blade is 8 1/2 inches long, single edge with a 5 inches back edge. Pierced and engraved and with brass strip inserted to the spine. Horn grip with brass circle shaped and twisted wires inserts, set with small corals. Brass cross guard and collar. Fabric covered scabbard with brass mounts. Total length 14 1/2 inches.
The handle with the brass inserts as well as the scabbard cover are of ottoman style where as the blade shape and cuts looks somewhat North African.
