A most interesting dagger
 

Would love to get opinions on this piece. While I have a pretty good idea of what country this piece originates, I am curious to get other opinions. The knife is forged from a single piece of steel, very well forged and tempered as it rings like a bell, with very, very dark patina throughout.

Looks like an Indian khanjarli to me. I've not seen one with one-piece construction like this, however. Is it wootz?

Some sort of chilanum?

Guys, I am in agreement that this piece probably originates from India. It is a most unusual piece and it reeks of age. I think it might be quite old given the all steel construction, the dark patina, the thick "ricasso" between the handle and blade and the thick construction of the crossguard and handle. Really seems to be made for heavy use. Andrew, I swear I see some wootz peeking through the patination and when you hit the blade on a table or something it vibrates like a tuning fork and it rings like a bell when flicked. Not necessarily indicitive of wootz but wootz certainly does that.

It reminds me of the Naga two-handed swords: all-steel construction.

Naga / Assam all steel two hand sword - 32" long

I wote for India as well, although I have never seen one like this before.

Bill, how does your sword sound, when hit on wood?

When I saw this puppy at the Louisville show when you got it, I agreed with you about the possibility of India, but the quillions at the base of the blade threw me for a loop. Jens - what do you think about these? :confused: