Can anyone tell me about this dagger (khanjar)?

Steve · 30th July 2010, 03:32 AM

Hi, From my knowledge of these jambiyas I think what you have has come from the Jizan/Asir area of the current Saudi Arabia. By the look of the belt which is a common working class Yemen variety, maybe a little south than north from this area. Although Zanzibar had a strong relationship with Oman, I think this jambiya probably found its way to Zanzibar via the Red Sea - maybe by a sailor or fisherman working this area.

As far as the blade goes, the etchings are not uncommon and must have been a fad at some time. The little head appears often and is usually accompanied with a religious inscription. Sometimes there is a dove or pigeon with jewish stars. I don't know about your translation. Unfortunately, these etchings generally appear on blades of poorer quality. I'm not too sure about the one you have.

The weight you mention is about right for this jambiya+ belt form. Nice piece from an interesting area. Regards.

30th July 2010, 03:32 AM	#3
Steve Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Sydney Posts: 58	Hi, From my knowledge of these jambiyas I think what you have has come from the Jizan/Asir area of the current Saudi Arabia. By the look of the belt which is a common working class Yemen variety, maybe a little south than north from this area. Although Zanzibar had a strong relationship with Oman, I think this jambiya probably found its way to Zanzibar via the Red Sea - maybe by a sailor or fisherman working this area. As far as the blade goes, the etchings are not uncommon and must have been a fad at some time. The little head appears often and is usually accompanied with a religious inscription. Sometimes there is a dove or pigeon with jewish stars. I don't know about your translation. Unfortunately, these etchings generally appear on blades of poorer quality. I'm not too sure about the one you have. The weight you mention is about right for this jambiya+ belt form. Nice piece from an interesting area. Regards.