An interesting .... what is it?

[Rick]

The metal work reminds me strongly of this style.
North Africa? Also, the two ring mounting style.

[gp]

the floral decoration makes me think of an islamic nature / origin but for the Magreb the lines are a little too thin / refined.
Also its style and the blade does indicate another direction: Caucasus or even / rather one of the Central Asia countries...

[DaveA]

Thanks GP.

I was thinking Caucasian, perhaps near the border with Turkey. The bone material somewhat matches a bone hilt in a Georgian kindjal from that area in my collection. The decorative red and black floral is what is throwing me off that track.I have not seen it before.

Dave A.

[gp]

Originally Posted by DaveA

Thanks GP.

I was thinking Caucasian, perhaps near the border with Turkey. The bone material somewhat matches a bone hilt in a Georgian kindjal from that area in my collection. The decorative red and black floral is what is throwing me off that track.I have not seen it before.

Dave A.

Hi Dave,

the red ist often used in Ottoman influenced regions; carnelian or also called cornelian
Less expensive than coral ( which is often used for the more expensive ones) and also easier to use when a smaller size is required and still keep the good look.
Have a look at these examples:
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showpo...0&postcount=12

The black could be used specially to create a more or better visual contrast against the white background of the bone; also oftern seen in calligraphic decorations of drawings at that time in Islamic regions.
It is very soft, yet pronounced present which does make it look good looking, elegant I dare say

best regards

Gunar

[DaveA]

On close inspection, The red dots are indeed crystals set into holes in the bone. The black lines are very delicate. I don't feel any surface texture difference to the lines, but they are in very good condition, unlike the blade and other accoutrements. Thanks for the lead.

Dave

[Tatyana Dianova]

I am with Rick thinking of Moroccan origin. The metalwork on the scabbard is clearly Moroccan - I have Moroccan jewelry with the same pattern. As well the two rings look pretty much like on Moroccan daggers. The double-sided ricasso on the blade and the blade finish is similar to later Koumiya blades as well.

[Rick]

I'll also add that we often see Koummyas dressed in Camel bone hilts and scabbards, for what that's worth.