Yemeni sword

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

PLEASE see http://www.vikingsword.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000370.html for an interesting debate on these weapons.

At post 25 above I considered the blade stamp marks as Algerian and I still do ~ with the name of Ali bin alwafi bin Hassan on the cuff region . At the same time I consider these to be Bukharan weapons but cannot rule out that Jewish Smiths in Yemen may have made some of these as Micheal Blalock has indicated. However, I see no relation between these and Omani Swords.

See also post 7.

Below. It could be that the Algerian sword and gun marks are the same as the three dense black stamps on the sword.

[Jim McDougall]

I am really glad to see this topic brought back, as in such a fascinating and unresolved field of study as Arabian swords, too often a certain complacency seems to prevail.

Perhaps Elgood as he wrote in 1994, well described some conditions which seem to have been prevalent until those times. Fortunately those who have entered the field since have been diligent in trying to find answers and resolve some of these 'mysteries'.

Elgood wrote on page 15 ("Arms and Armour of Arabia"...., "...there are a number of Arab sword types that are loosely referred to as nimcha or saif, which are usually attributed to the Yemen by collectors and cataloguers on the basis that the weapons of the area are not well known and they are unlikely to be challenged on the attribution. There is no reliable published guide to the various types of Arab sword and some of the North African hilts are said to be Arabian".

He goes on to talk about the 'Hadramaut' type of sabres (2.8; 2.10) which he says were often produced in Hyderabad, India as there was a constant interaction with mercenary forces from there who went to and from India.
I have seen these, with repousse silverwork hilt of karabela style and distinctly Arab mounts remarkably like these with the (reluctantly described)"barber pole" spiral wrap on the scabbard. They had the hollow ground, European cavalry type blades, highly polished.

Hadhramaut is of course, collectively a region of 'the Yemen' in degree, and again, here we see the broad sweep of attributions which we see now being reconsidered. With what are most compelling observations concerning Bukhara and these swords with their influences in Yemen. As I consider the apparently Bukharen and Caucasian use of this 'spiral wrap ' affectation, it seems more likely that these swords were mounted in southern Arabia, and in the Yemeni sphere.
However, certain patterns, such as the 'wheel' design in the motif on some of the examples I saw may reflect India influence, but could well have simply been another nuanced device mixed into the overall motif in Yemen.

Although these 'Yemeni/Bukharen' swords do have the open and cuffed type hilt resembling the Omani sayfs (often formerly termed 'kattara'), they do seem to be an independent form which evolved in some limited religious and diplomatic channels between these regions. It is of course tempting to think that perhaps certain contact between Oman and Yemen might have brought certain affectations together concerning sword forms, but much more evidence is needed. Naturally the contact between Yemen and Zanzibar is well noted, so this well could have provided such conduit .

Regarding the markings on the example shown in #25, it is most interesting to consider the blade possibly having Algerian connections. Again, the contact between North Africa and Arabia is well established, so such possibility is of course quite plausible. The markings themselves seem to be exaggerated examples of such triple stamps from Italian context (often termed 'twig' marks) and often copied by native artisans. These seem much heavier of course, but may be elaboration in interpretation.
In conversations regarding North African swords over the years, it has been emphatically suggested to me that the sabres of Morocco (often termed 'nimcha' some years ago, were actually Arabian.

These same type hilts (with the distinct nock under pommel) are also found on these 'nimcha' termed 'Zanzibar' versions. I recall years back when many of these 'nimcha' (with ring or loop on guard, pictured below) were found in Yemen, and were said to be from Zanzibar.
As we recall, the Omani open hilt sayf was well represented in Zanzibar.

[Michael Blalock]

Period photo

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Thanks to Michael Blalock for the inclusion of more pictures showing the sword with a Yemeni tribal chief. It may not however detract from the general view that this is a Bukharan style . Yemeni Bukaran links are considerable in the religious field including architecture and religious linkages. The Yemen is perhaps the root birthplace of the Omani Battle Sword often called Sayf Yemaani...possibly made in Hadramaut… but a more direct link is more difficult to assume or prove.

I noted earlier the potential here for an Algerian blade and would add to that the likelihood of Yemeni Jewish involvement in the well crafted silver and the typical big architectural style in the hilt somewhat reflected in other weapon parts like the monumental, architectural crown at the end of the scabbard of Yemeni Daggers.

Trying to identify Mosque domes as linked to these weapons is impossible in my view... For example with say Iranian Mosque domes... but the Sayf Yemaani must pre date Islam in Iran if it did come to Oman in 700 to 752 AD as the Ibaathi battle Sword. The link between the Omani and Yemeni/ Bukharen sword shown here is in my opinion insufficiently explored...More research needed I suggest.

[Jim McDougall]

Thank you Ibrahiim for adding your insights here to a thread which is great to see again. While they say a picture is worth a thousand words, with regard to study and discussion, it helps to know what is pertinent and what we are looking at.

The salient points of this thread were views toward the possible Bukharen connections between the Yemen and Bukhara via religious circumstances, as well as the architectural influences shared and as is often the case. It does seem that architectural features often influence decoration and motif in many cultures. In many cases these are stylized and had to adequately identify, especially for those outside the according spheres.

I recall many years ago when I saw swords identified as Bukharen which had the red backed silver banding on the scabbard similar to the examples I had seen designated as Hadhramauti. In later discussion the spherical and ovoid pommels became notable as perhaps connected.

As you say, more research well warranted!!!

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by Jim McDougall

Thank you Ibrahiim for adding your insights here to a thread which is great to see again. While they say a picture is worth a thousand words, with regard to study and discussion, it helps to know what is pertinent and what we are looking at.

The salient points of this thread were views toward the possible Bukharen connections between the Yemen and Bukhara via religious circumstances, as well as the architectural influences shared and as is often the case. It does seem that architectural features often influence decoration and motif in many cultures. In many cases these are stylized and had to adequately identify, especially for those outside the according spheres.

I recall many years ago when I saw swords identified as Bukharen which had the red backed silver banding on the scabbard similar to the examples I had seen designated as Hadhramauti. In later discussion the spherical and ovoid pommels became notable as perhaps connected.

As you say, more research well warranted!!!

Hello Jim, I was only just looking at the Yemen Bukharan connection and dug out this https://visainfodesk.com/po-i-kalyan...ra-uzbekistan/ where the Yemen provided the inspiration for a Great Mosque which has lasted as the main Bukharan Mosque for 500 years. Obviously with such a dignatory as this from Yemen the cultural and Religious ties must have been considerable however on the timescale this rules out certain aspects of the Sayf Yemaani ..The Old Omani Battle Sword.

The Yemeni link is important and the above reference states Quote" Mir-i Arab Madrasah (‘Arab emir madrasah’), which is still a functioning madrasah Islamic school, stands across from the mosque. The construction of the madrasah (1535 – 1536) was funded by Ubaidulla-Khan, Shaybani-Khan’s nephew. It was built for the sheikh Abdullah Yemeni, the spiritual mentor of the early Shaybanids. In order to build the madrasah, Ubaidulla-Khan had to sell 3,000 captive Persians he had as slaves. According to another source, he gave Abdullah Yemeni, Bukhara Islamic leader and his teacher, also known as Emir of the Arabs, all the loot from his raids to pay for the construction.''Unquote.

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Ibrahiim al Balooshi

Hello Jim, I was only just looking at the Yemen Bukharan connection and dug out this https://visainfodesk.com/po-i-kalyan...ra-uzbekistan/ where the Yemen provided the inspiration for a Great Mosque which has lasted as the main Bukharan Mosque for 500 years. Obviously with such a dignatory as this from Yemen the cultural and Religious ties must have been considerable however on the timescale this rules out certain aspects of the Sayf Yemaani ..The Old Omani Battle Sword.

The Yemeni link is important and the above reference states Quote" Mir-i Arab Madrasah (‘Arab emir madrasah’), which is still a functioning madrasah Islamic school, stands across from the mosque. The construction of the madrasah (1535 – 1536) was funded by Ubaidulla-Khan, Shaybani-Khan’s nephew. It was built for the sheikh Abdullah Yemeni, the spiritual mentor of the early Shaybanids. In order to build the madrasah, Ubaidulla-Khan had to sell 3,000 captive Persians he had as slaves. According to another source, he gave Abdullah Yemeni, Bukhara Islamic leader and his teacher, also known as Emir of the Arabs, all the loot from his raids to pay for the construction.''Unquote.

I recall in discussions as I noted, that there was a distinct similarity in the scabbard decoration of swords from Hadhramaut (Elgood, "Arabian Arms & Armour) and those of Bukhara. While it is of course a tenuous suggestion based on what would seem free association, but the religious connections and proclivity for architectural influences from Mosques and Minarets on sword decoration in these contexts is most interesting.

At the top are Bukharen swords,
To the right a sa'if from Hadhramat
Botton, a San'aa mounted sword of Yemen

[ariel]

Elgood’s book on arms and armour of Arabia came out in 1994, almost 30 years ago.
Since then several books addressing narrowly defined topics ( i.e. Yemeni Janbiyas, specifically Omani weapons, North African bladed weapons) were published and internet Fora had multiple discussions of different physical aspects of Arabian swords and daggers, their history, their typology, uncovering formerly unknown examples etc,etc . In short , we have gotten so much of new information that a new book covering the whole panoply of historical weapons of the Arab world is absolutely needed.

Either Elgood might re-write his book as an expanded second edition or somebody else might assemble a group of people with good knowledge of a particular variety of ethnic weapons to be assigned well-defined chapters.

I think the time is ripe for such an enterprise.

[A.alnakkas]

Originally Posted by ariel

Elgood’s book on arms and armour of Arabia came out in 1994, almost 30 years ago.
Since then several books addressing narrowly defined topics ( i.e. Yemeni Janbiyas, specifically Omani weapons, North African bladed weapons) were published and internet Fora had multiple discussions of different physical aspects of Arabian swords and daggers, their history, their typology, uncovering formerly unknown examples etc,etc . In short , we have gotten so much of new information that a new book covering the whole panoply of historical weapons of the Arab world is absolutely needed.

Either Elgood might re-write his book as an expanded second edition or somebody else might assemble a group of people with good knowledge of a particular variety of ethnic weapons to be assigned well-defined chapters.

I think the time is ripe for such an enterprise.

I’ve been working on this for years now. Shibriyas are my current focus with barely any progress. So many types with little info.

[ariel]

Talk to Motan on this forum. He collects shibriyas and is well-informed about them.

[Michael Blalock]

Quite a beautiful Yemeni sword. I saw this online yesterday. Not great photos. I question the attribution for the 1500’s. The decorations are too similar to the other examples we have that were likely made within the last two centuries.
That’s quite a hefty price as well.
See the description below.



Item Overview
Description
A sword (saif) with flat slightly tapering double-edged blade, on one side with inscriptions in naskh script, the green mina enameled silver hilt with ribbed pommel, the guard and the grip carved with floral decorations. The leather covered scabbard body with two belt attachment rings, the locket and chape with a similar green mina enameled and silver carved decoration with traces of gilding. Length: 106 cm. Early swords from the Arab cultures use to employ straight heavy blades. Curved shamshir style swords were adopted by many Arab communities and cultures around the 10th century, but in two places – Oman and Yemen straight blade swords continued to be used. The well known Omani Kattara sword was in use well into the 20th century. Its Yemeni “sister” is much less common. The Yemeni sword with straight blade follows the style of earlier Islamic swords. Quite similar to Mamluk swords from the 13th century, not only with its straight blade but also the handle style with a ball shaped or similar rounded pommel. Use of early European blade is also common to these swords. PROVENANCE Private collection, France. CATALOGUE NOTE Badr Abu Tuwaireq, Badr bin Abdullah bin Ali bin Omar Al Kathiri, one of the greatest sultans of the Kathiri Sultanate. Born in 1494, one year after his grandfather Jaafar occupied al-Shihr. He assumed the sultanate after his father in 1520, but the ambition of his brother Badr left him no room for action. He is considered the first Hadhrami sultan who persevered in unifying the regions of Hadramout and Mukalla. During his reign he reached the farthest limits of the Kathiri Sultanate. He knew that every tribe could declare its disobedience and rebellion and isolate its small areas of rule, harming the great unity of Hadramout and the region. As soon as the year 1520 passed, Abu Tuwaireq was the de facto ruler of Hadramout, and his brother Muhammad remained the ruler of Dhofar. However, Abu Tuwaireq wrested Dhofar from his brother in the year 1540. He became the ruler with the entire Kathiri state after he made his brother Muhammad ruler of the city of Al-Shihr, worked to form an army from other forces made up of the Turks of the Ottoman army, during the period of Caliph Suleiman the Magnificent, as well as from Jabal Yafea and their loyalists, and from some northern Yemeni regions, in order to be assured of their obedience and non-rebellion, and to fight the rebellious tribes against him in Nahd and Hamum. During his reign of nearly 50 years (died in1569) had many wars with the Doan tribes, headed by the sheikhdom of the Amoudi family and Siban under the leadership of Sheikh Othman bin Ahmed Al-Amoudi Governor of the Doan Valley. Many of the tribes of Yafaa migrated during his reign to Hadhramaut and remained there to this day.
Condition Report

Condition reports and high resolution pictures are available on our website at www.orientalartauctions.com If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@orientalartauctions.com

[TVV]

I doubt the 16th century attribution as well, but it is the nicest one of these I have personally seen.

[Kubur]

Originally Posted by Michael Blalock

Period photo

Beautiful photos of Yemeni swords
There is of course absolutely no evidence of Bukharan influences.
This discussion was all made up on the forum based on nothing...

[TVV]

I am sorry, I fail to see the Central Asian connection either.

[ariel]

With all due respect to the authorities:


The most obvious place to find Bukharan swords would be in the former USSR museums. AFAIK, there are none even remotely similar.
There are plenty of old Uzbek and Tadjik swords there, but all of them are just regular shamshirs of various quality and decorative techniques. These areas were under Persian influence till the Arabs came or under Turkic Mongols, all brandishing sabers. For more than a millennium they saw nothing else. Already in the 9th century Khwarizmians were boasting about their swords in curved scabbards.

In contrast, Yemen has always been the most “frozen in time” country.
Yemeni Arabic is widely considered the closest to the purest Pre-Islamic one. Just like the Omani ones, they might have preserved the pre/early Islamic swords as well.

In short, I, just like Teodor, see nothing Central Asian here, but the Yemeni connection sounds eminently plausible.

[Jim McDougall]

Thank you guys, interesting views. I think what I am recalling toward the 'connection' or possible connection between Bukharen affectations on swords (in this case the spiral bands on scabbards) is the several examples of Bukharen swords in posts with this feature and described as Bukharen.

Also the similarities in the hilt elements (pommel, cylindrical etc.) were noted as with such possible connections between Yemen and Bukhara. It does not seem infeasible that religious connections between these clearly distant regions existed, and that such contacts would result in certain material culture designs or affectations. Obviously drawing such parallels would be a tenuous proposition, but to deem such connections impossible or non existent arbitrarily would be unfortunate. Theories, ideas and suggestions are pretty much just that, and not intended as conclusions.

In the photo I previously posted with the Yemeni swords with the spiral scabbards, the first image with three swords are of Buharen examples, as identified by the post I took it from (on these pages but trying to relocate).
It seems that the Persian factor in designs etc. is notably present in Bukhara and India's northern regions and Afghanistan.
In Arabian context, the same favor toward Persian design etc. is also well known.

Is it possible that such an affectation is via the Persian conduit rather than direct Bukharen /Yemen connection?
Whatever the case, it does seem, at least in what I have seen, that this particular banding on scabbards is seen (as agreed) on Yemen swords, but appears known as well on SOME Bukharen (or Uzbek) examples.

These three swords are NOT Yemeni, but Uzbek (Bukharen) and the center one is the one I refer to with the same spiral as on my Hadhramaut sa'if.
Also note the ovoid fluted shape of the scabbard tips similar to the pommel on the cylindrical hilts of some Yemeni swords.

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by Kubur

Beautiful photos of Yemeni swords
There is of course absolutely no evidence of Bukharan influences.
This discussion was all made up on the forum based on nothing...

We would have to define Bukharen influence. Is there a distinctly Bukharen character which was confined to those specific regions? As far as I have understood the Persian dynamic in such influences affected many cultures and regions throughout the Middle East, India (particularly Mughals), Central Asia and more.
The point has been that influences which influenced Bukhara may well have shared and been diffused in Yemeni designs as well.
I was once told, 'weapons have NO geographic boundaries' in discussions with an authority on Bukharen arms, and in which a sabre (of similar form to shashka) could not be determined either Uzbek or Afghan. There were elements in character of both, so classification was pretty much a toss up.

I consider the observations in the discussions on these swords as all relevant and far from being based on nothing. In fact all of the content is pertinent data toward the remarkably difficult determination of the history and development of these weapons. Classifications and historical determinations of influences may not always be finite, but reasonable plausibility is a worthwhile outcome.

[Kubur]

Hi Guys,

As always I was too short! Let me add some facts:

First as Ariel said these swords don't appear in eastern collections... strange.

Second about the pommel and even the hilt, well you can compare the pommel to any dome or minaret from North Africa to Persia and India.
The ribbed domes are not specific to Central Asia. It's easy to check, you have plenty of books on architecture.

Third Yemeni in Bukhara, since the Arab conquest Yemeni are all over the place from North Africa up to India and even China! They were very influencial in religious studies. So Yemeni in Bukhara is not exceptional and not a proof that they brought back some swords to Yemen.

Fourth spiral design is found also on Ottoman scabbards and spiral banding on Indian swords most of the time to wrap up some textiles. So there is no proof that Bukharen invented this design...

Last two men who are not newbies commented these swords as yemeni, Robert Hales and Robert Elgood (he says Hijazi).
And yes I agree with you swords have no geographic boundaries and I like this discussion. The last example is really cool, from Solingen to India and ending up in Yemen...

[Jim McDougall]

You're right Kubur, this is a fun, and challenging discussion.
I think the case for these spherical pommel, shouldered or flared guard integral with grip swords being Yemeni is of course well known.
However, I don't think that it has been implied that somehow a Bukharen sword was brought back to Yemen, and suddenly all the Yemenis wanted such 'Bukharen' swords.

The point desperately trying to be made here is that this form of hilt was widely adopted THROUGHOUT the Dar al Islam, and examples in Bukhara, as well as through CENTRAL ASIA reflect the same styling.

While many of these examples are indeed Yemeni, they did not hold an exclusive patent on the design, and as often occurs, the influences did apparently diffuse via trade, diplomatic and other channels throughout regions from Arabia, the Middle East and Central Asia.

To reiterate, Bukhara was not the SOURCE of the designs, but ONE of the many regions which in varying degree adopted them.

In "Arts of the Muslim Knight" (ed. Bashir Mohammed) I attach three examples which show the collared hilt and spherical pommels and are identified as Central Asian and from 9th century. These are remarkably similar to the 'Yemeni' examples ; the Auctions Imperial example identified as 19th c. Bukharen; and others.

In "Two Swords from the Foundations of Gibraltar" by David Nicolle, the attached plate (#28) shows a bronze sword as late 10th, early 11th c. from a shipwreck and it is noted to likely be from Armenia or Azerbijian.
In the same article, a sword with remarkably similar style hilt is shown as Roman, 2nd c. AD.

So my question is, is it possible that the styling of these hilts developed from a quite ancient form or group of similar hilt features, became popularly known, and were adopted in numerous cultural spheres ?

So we are not saying that these hilts or affectations come FROM Bukharen influence, only that Central Asia apparently SHARED them, just as Yemen did.