Another Kattara

Michael Blalock · 21st July 2007, 11:59 PM

When I first saw this Kattara I though it might be a replica, now that I have it in-hand, I am certain it is an antique Kattara that has gone through several re-fittings, the most recent being the leather on the scabbard which could not be more that 50-75 years old. If you look at the photo of a Kattara from Elgood you can see the same design for the buttons. The silver on the grip shows signs of long-term wear. The steel pommel has a faint swirl that is worn away. The repousse on the hilt and scabbard is very defined and typical of Omani jambiyas.

I would appreciate your opinions. Is this how these swords, which up until now I have only seen in the bare steel form, were decorated? Any estimates on age?

Michael Blalock · 22nd July 2007, 12:03 AM

More photos

ariel · 22nd July 2007, 03:09 AM

Is this the one described by the seller as having unsharpened edges?

Michael Blalock · 22nd July 2007, 03:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ariel

Is this the one described by the seller as having unsharpened edges?

Yes, it is. I don't know what that was about. The sword actually is quite sharp considering that it's an old blade. Of course it's not Yemeni either. It is similarly forged as my other kattara and shorter Yemeni sword. The same types of flaws and taper to the thickness of the blade. There is some deep pitting near the tip on one side. Definatley not a european blade.

21st July 2007, 11:59 PM	#1
Michael Blalock Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: dc Posts: 271	Another Kattara When I first saw this Kattara I though it might be a replica, now that I have it in-hand, I am certain it is an antique Kattara that has gone through several re-fittings, the most recent being the leather on the scabbard which could not be more that 50-75 years old. If you look at the photo of a Kattara from Elgood you can see the same design for the buttons. The silver on the grip shows signs of long-term wear. The steel pommel has a faint swirl that is worn away. The repousse on the hilt and scabbard is very defined and typical of Omani jambiyas. I would appreciate your opinions. Is this how these swords, which up until now I have only seen in the bare steel form, were decorated? Any estimates on age? Attached Images

22nd July 2007, 12:03 AM	#2
Michael Blalock Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: dc Posts: 271	More photos Attached Images

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22nd July 2007, 03:09 AM	#3
ariel Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Ann Arbor, MI Posts: 5,503	Is this the one described by the seller as having unsharpened edges?