[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Salaams all ~ Note to Library;

It is now abundantly clear that the curved Omani Kattara gave rise to the longhilt on which the straight Omani Sayf became designed onto from its inception in 1744 at the start of the current Dynasty as a pageant and dancing sword only.

The single edged, curved Kattara, although in its own right a European battle blade, was mounted on a long hilt whose design "may have been influenced" by an African hilt namely the Manding long hilt... perhaps because of the long association with the Slavery Trade in parts of East and Central Africa long dominated by Oman from the powerful and influencial hub of Zanzibar. This weapon could deliver a formidable blow, however, though it may have been used agressively on occasions there seems to be no doubt that this was also a badge of office of an important dignitary; VIP, Sea Captain or important Trader.

I show the two types which suggests (correctly as it turns out) that the well known curved kattara hilt was designed onto the straight dancing blade for the new Dynasty of 1744... and until today.

Regards,
Ibrahiim al Balooshi.