Need help IDing Kindjal

[gcwh]

Hi,
I am looking for any available info on a Kindjal I have. I am trying to find out about its history, age, etc., so any info or recommendations for other resources are greatly appreciated!!

The first picture shows how there is a pattern punched into the sheath, which is wood bound by what appears to be tin. That is my guess - it is a very thin metal, that hasn't tarnished. The design is also on the front side of the handle. If you look carefully along the edge of the sheath closest to the dagger, you can see where the top edge was welded.

The second picture is of the back side of the dagger and sheath. As you can see, it is unadorned. There is also a piece of the wood missing on the back part, so when the blade is in it, you can see it between the two pieces of metal. If you look along the edge closest to the bottom of the picture you can, again, just see the welding. The welding is very prominent on that edge in person... not subtle at all ;-)

I know it is in rough shape, but I like it.

Thanks!

[ariel]

My guess it is Turkish, late 19th century.