Code AN42
An jambiya from Syria or possibly Jordan, circa mid-20th C. The condition is exceptionally fine and appears to never have seen actual use. While it shares the characteristic flattened hilt of the Majdali Jambiyas from the Golon heights, the shape of the hilt also is similar to the Damascus style and the inlaid colored stones. The style and decoration of the scabbard also suggest an origin in the region closer to Jordon. It may come from a village other than Majdal Shams but nearby.
The blade has a flattened oval cross section, thicker than most similar jambiyas. The upward swept trailing point tip become nearly conical in shape, similar to the Indo-Persian Sirah Bouk, a tip well suited to piercing chain mail armor. This makes it somewhat of a hybrid and a mystery! The blade is 5 ½ inches in length and also features a central deep fuller extending nearly to the tip and twin shorter fullers on either side of the central fuller nearest the hilt. The hilt is decorated with engraved features near the hilt that may suggest hills. This lends credence to the Golan Heights village theory. Towards the middle of the blade, arabic script is engraved. On one side of fuller the name "MAHMOUD" appears, presumably either the maker or owner. On the other, the inscription, "OUR GOD. OH! LORD".
This weapon was a one time in the collection of Anthony Tirri and is featured in "Islamic Weapons: Maghrib to Moghul" by Anthony C. Tirri. See page 96.
Read more about Janbiya / jambiya in my collection.
