I agree with the other observations on this piece....very nice!!
What factors identify this dagger as Manding? The sabres are of course instantly recognizable, but not as familiar with the daggers. Is the tassle at the tip a Manding feature?
I always wonder about the large X marking also. It seems that a key component of folk religion in material cultural symbolism in North Africa pertains to the four directions, four corners of the earth etc. Is that the likely case here? I have seen the X on a scabbard on one of those mysterious 'Berber' sabres and recalling that prompted that question.
Best regards,
Jim