art-of-swords:

Ottoman Kilij Sword

• Dated: sword ~ circa 1776- 1825; blade ~ circa 1700-1750
• Culture: Turkey – Ottoman period (1299-1922)
• Medium: Steel, gold, rhinoceros horn, brass, wood, shagreen leather
• Dimensions: full length ~ 94.5 cm, blade length ~ 82 cm

The manufacture of the hilt of this Kilij, in the customary shape of the Turkish-Ottoman sabre, can be dated to late 1700’s, early 1800’s. The blade, in wootz steel, can be dated to the first half of the 18th century. In its underside, the ricasso is ornamented with three distinct motifs, displayed apart from each other, all engraved and encrusted with gold.

In each of these it is possible to discern a composition of vegetal scrollwork, and a geometric combination of straight lines inserted in a circle – a common motif in Arabic decoration. It also displays a horizontal cartouche with a barely discernible inscription.

The hilt, in the shape of a pistol’s handgrip, is constructed with two plaques of rhinoceros horn, riveted in the blade’s fitting. It has brass hand guards ornamented with engraved geometric motifs. The wooden scabbard is covered in shagreen leather, with brass mounts engraved with a flower design.

Source & Copyright: Caravana Collection