Kurt I must say that it is a little unusual to have gold koftgari in such pristine condition - and still thick!!
For me (being a bling queen
) this is one of the great features of your piece.
I think that the word "Allah" might be in the Seal of Solomon "star". I was waiting for translations, but sometimes that takes a few days depending upon who gets to see this. Please be patient. I also think I see a Qur'anic verse in one of the inscriptions as well.
I like the wootz, but I think you are right - a little more etching might help. However, if it is Turkish wootz, it might not pop out like Persian wootz does.
At the same time, I also noticed that your rhino horn grip seems complete as well.
If you ever want to throw this away in the trash, please let me know......
