The Omani Khanjar

[DavidE]

Thank you Ibrahiim for the terrific posts!

I have a small sword and dagger collection, but know very little about the Khanjar and other Omani weapons. However, I am in Oman now and just purchased a Khanjar from one of the shops in the Nizwa souq. I looked around a good bit and found an older one that I felt was higher quality than most I had seen, of course with a higher price to match! The old man I bought it from spoke hardly any English, and since I don't speak Arabic I wasn't able to get much information from him about this Khanjar. Whatever you might be able to let me know about it would be much appreciated! I have attached a few images. Thank you!

David

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

See http://khanjar.om/Parts.html
See 87, 119 and 240 on this thread for comparisons relevant to post below.

This is an interesting Khanjar with a likely replaced hilt which may be old Rhino … I cant make out the material so it could be horn or wood. Get a powerful light and shine it into the hilt at close range and see if it lights up...This thread has examples on it of what I mean.

I see evidence on the hilt of more pins which have gone. Its old...but the silver work is very nice. This is Nizwa Khanjar and carries distinctive patterns from there and the little shield covers over the rings are typical for Nizwa. The pattern on the scabbard is split palmette stitched in silver on leather.

The blade is interesting and with 4 dots it is rare. I see 3 dots occasionally but the 4 dot is nice to see and is likely talismanic as it presents the lucky 3 dot configuration up and down the blade simultaneously.. It is doubly powerful as it is on both sides of the blade. The material in the dots is likely to be brass often used to substitute for gold which would be considered; over the top …

[Tatyana Dianova]

Hello Ibrahiim,
Thank you for the great thread which I read again and again when getting a new piece!
Last time although I have got an old Khanjar which is different to all the examples you have shown. Do you have any idea which region does it come from?

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This is a remarkable Omani Khanjar of quite some age which if it is what I think it is may be one of the oldest I have seen to date perhaps from the al Busayyidi dynasty of Saiid bin Sultan who ruled 1804 to 1856 and who died on board a warship off Zanzibar .. a country he absorbed as part of Oman ..in fact he made it the capital through Stonetown Zanzibar and vastly important as a herb growing, slavery and centre and hub of the trade in Ivory and Rhino and other commodities...

One of his wives designed a Khanjar known as The Busaidi Dagger but before that there was a dagger quite similar ...I think this style with its seven rings and straight T shaped hilt (this one is broken unequally on both ears so it looked different in its younger days.) Post 1 looks at these Royal Busaidi weapons . The Richardson and Dorr has a similar weapon to this which I will dig out later.

Thus actually the Muscat Dagger had a T shaped hilt normal across much of Oman and carried 7 rings which Sheherezad copied onto the Royal item and with a very Indian design lavish and highly decorated hilt. It was the Hilt which she brought to the design for the Royal Khanjar the 7 rings were already here...on the Muscat item... Interestingly this weapon carries 5 inner rings of silver and two outer rings of what looks like copper or brass... I have no idea why but there is on this weapon a really important play with the geometric figure 5...which I will cover here..

5 is very lucky as a Talismanic figure in many cultures... In Oman it is related to the hand of Fatimah (the five fingers of) and here unlike in say Morrocco where an actual hand is fashioned in their jewellery it is represented by a geometric form like a figure 5 in dominos . This is often the décor on lucky charm boxes (Hirz) worn as a neck pendant.
See your last picture ...above the rings the section with figure 5s starting with a big silver dot in the centre there are many exploding figure 5 geometries working outwards ...They are hand of Fatimah 5s. Along the base of the shabak or triangular net construction are 5 silver additions . I note also that the Rings are also 5 in number on the inner belt...and other 5 geometries in the lower section .

The blade is very old going by the wear and like other parts of any khanjar could be from an even earlier weapon...To the back of the hilt is a strengthener of a style I have never seen; probably fashioned to save the hilt from disintegrating... It may have cracked I cannot tell...but a fixing like this probably means the hilt was an heirloom and the owner wanted it kept together as such. The material looks like Rhino.

See 165 for similar outer rings on a Royal Khanjar but one extra point Your Khanjar has very peculiar fixings reflected in the Quba at the end of these 7 dot flowers . The fixings between the rings follow this pattern. Please see 168 for similar fixings between the rings. 168 is the dagger from the Richardson and Dorr I was talking about earlier... This to my eye pinpoints the weapon much more clearly as described.

There is discussion here as to whether it is from the Sharqiyyah or has Yemeni style in its silver work and so on but to me it follows the structure and description of The Muscat Khanjar.

[Tatyana Dianova]

Hello Ibrahiim,
Thank you for the great and interesting analysis! I hope this example will help your research!

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Showing the weapon around to associates I often get the call that this is a Busaidi Khanjar if you cover the hilt with one hand they will say 'Saiidi Khanjar then show the hilt they say saifaani! Some like their Royal Daggers like this !! at which point it becomes almost a personal preference . Saifaani being a Rhino horn type. Very much favoured in the past. Khanjar descriptions often mingle between styles and there are many variations add ons and subtractions...So technically this is a Saifaani 'Saiidi .
Thanks for your kind words.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Reference;
A. Omanisilver.com/contents/en-us/d365_Omani_khanjar.html


Some detail on the subject of Khanjar blades which tend to get sidelined and I have to admit not a great deal is available. This group all have some sort of wootz decoration whereas the majority are steel non wootz.

The reference above mentions earlier blades as being from Europe or Iran in its Von Oppenheimer book but that the British Museum suggests blades made in Sanaa were used in the collection of Ingrams Khanjars. (Harold Ingrams was a famous historian and chief secretary at Zanzibar in the early 20thC) I think all regions in the hub may have been responsible as well as some Omani production.

[Richard G]

I am always surprised at how little tang there is on these blades.
Regards
Richard

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

It baffles me as well! Perhaps the vibrations through a longer tang would wreck the hilt? The only thing holding the blade in the hilt is the short tang and some glue and to stop the blade twisting a small bit of the broad blade slots in. Blades dropping out is quite common. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

I should log in the usual load of normal lower quality blades available at most workshops and although some do now carry a few wootz examples these are the blade types normally seen. On being asked the shop people usually either don't know where they are obtained or say India; Rajastan :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

THE BEST ALTERNATIVE HILT TO RHINO


I've looked at cowhorn and sandalwood and ceramic and plastic alternatives but have not seen a good horn equivalent until today where an Indian hilt has stolen second place to Rhino in the business of top class hilts for Khanjars.
Its name is Qarn Zaraf al Hindi and it looks bovine or could be a large deer horn. It is dark and after a few years has slight translucent properties but is excellent for Omani khanjar hilts as it accepts silver pins easily and in quantity without splitting. While a little costly it is far less than Rhino and could help save it from further extinction. I will present the examples in my next post.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Hilt: Khanjar Zaraf al Hindi ~

Again I rely largely on the pictorial with whatever detail I can muster with this most interesting development in good quality hilts. the Zaraf al Afrique which we know better as the rhino is very translucent and hugely expensive and of course very rare and almost extinct. (The Rhino has another name ~ wahid al garn which can be, the one with the horn or the one horn)

Now to the pictures~ on which it can be seen the colour range for this horn is from almost black through a nut brown to an almost olive light green... its ability to accept silver nails almost the same as the Rhino hilt makes it the best alternative yet seen and could help save the Rhino from extinction.

I believe that aspects in design of the Omani Khanjar are directly linked to the Rhino traditionally and down many centuries from the shape of the blade to the pins reflecting the Rhino horn fabric and the turned up decorated scabbard and the fact that this weapon is worn front and centre on the belt. In support there is also the Rhino hilt shield also carried with the Khanjar and or sword. My post earlier at #246 looks at the same design.

[Richard G]

That's a bloody giraffe's head - isn't it?

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

It is indeed. There in lies the puzzle on zraf al hindi or zaraf al Hindi. Its not some weird Indian antelope or deer>>>though they are related ~millions of years ago ..

I researched this oddity years ago and came to a dead halt as the reason seemed to point that giraffe were used for their horn although the smoke screen thickened to giraffe hoof horn !! aha!!! but that was all bull (scuse pun) as it turns out the whats in a word has had the last laugh... but not any more!!

Zraf al Hindi is African Giraffe!!

The head and horns shown above are from male African giraffe which goes by the Arabic name zraf al hindi. moreover the horns are as below~

see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ossicone

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

:shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Thus ;
1. That the African Rhino (ar. Zraf al Afrique) is closely mirrored in the weapon the Omani Khanjar in a number of parts; the hilt, the silver pins, the scabbard, the blade and the use of the Terrs shield as below~

The hilt being the Rhino horn preferred traditionally and hunted by Omani traders for hundreds of years and through the vast Zanzibar hub. This is the preferred hilt for all Royal Khanjars (al bussaidi) even though most or all of the hilt is adorned in silver. and always was the first choice in any Omani Khanjar of quality. The beauty in the material is in its ease of accepting masses of silver pins and in the translucent nature of the material which nothing as yet is able to imitate. The main factor however in my view is that this is from the great powerful rhino itself.. The weapons hilt derived from the rhino main armament!

The Blade. shaped like the rhino main horn, slightly less turned than the Yemeni equivalent but a strong defensive weapon worn not at the side but front and centre as is the Rhino Horn.

Scabbard. the Scabbard appears even more so as a copy of the Rhino Horn curving in the same shape but way more than the blade though not monumental as in the Yemeni variant.

The Pins the pins appear to reflect the tubed or spaghetti ends of the rhino horn and light is reflected through and from them in the same way. The silver pins are not apparent in other Omani weapons... Only on the khanjar and mainly in the hilt. Silver pins are used en masse on Rhino Hilts which unlike other materials like cow horn or wood does not have a tendency to split on their use...

The Terrs Shield. This goes together with a number of weapons in the Omani arsenal including the Omani battle sword and the Omani Sayf however, it appears in the funoon (The traditions) in its own right as alongside the Omani khanjar in dance such as the baraa
The terrs can appear in a couple of materials even in wood and one I saw in woven straw ...another said to be from a barking sea dog;...the Walrus. But it is most famously known as being from Rhino Hide.
This product was hunted and traded in the same network via Zanzibar and from African Rhino. In those days it made sense to fight behind a shield which had been taken from such a powerful animal as the Rhino and is entirely in line with the application of this apparent mirroring in Omani Khanjar design with the African Rhino.

Thus with 5 reasons above I believe there is every reason to believe the Rhino and the Omani Khanjar are inextricably linked .. a Rhino Dagger by everything but name!

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

in addition to the proof above I wish to add a couple of other indicators under the headings for 1 below The Rhino Hide and for 2 below The Terrs Shield thus giving 6 factors linking the Omani Khanjar and Rhino~

1. Regarding the expanse of usually black leather below the belt on Dhakiliyyah(interior) Omani Khanjars a device not usually seen on Yemeni Jambia which I suggest is a reflection of Rhino hide. Actually all Omani Khanjars (and Emirati) have leather below the belt on the scabbard although on non Dhakiliyyah (and Emirati) weapons the leather covering the scabbard is almost always totally covered in silver stitched decoration. I believe the use of leather in construction is a recognition pointing to the great beast for its strength and power.

2. Staying with the general theme of leather but this time observing the strange pointed hat shaped silver covers usually seen on the two outer belt rings on the Scabbard. See the diagram at thread The Omani Khanjar of the parts/Omani names and see the name given to these tiny shapes...Terrs!! ...in recognition of the Rhino again ...of its thick skin shield The Terrs ..worn with the dagger and Omani Swords.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

From library some back up evidence for the above proof>

[ALEX]

This deceptive hilt looks like old cow horn but its Rhino..Many hilts are recovered from old khanjars and the shape with a narrow pommel like this is often the give away as from a Royal Hilt..Shining a powerful pen torch into the fibres is the best test..Rhino illuminates to show itself but cow horn is usually dull.

Hello Ibrahiim,
I posted a new thread HERE (http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=24615) .
Your post referenced my questions so well, unfortunately I saw it after posting mine.
The hilt on my new Jambiya looks older to the rest. Could it be one of those "recovered" hilts. Does it look like one? The weak flashlight I used did not illuminate the hilt and showed almost no translucency, so I think it is a regular horn. What do you think of it based on the look and the fibrous structure?
Thanks again

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

JUST TO ADD A FEW MORE KHANJARS AS EXAMPLES ~ and an interesting observation in that the main tool set in all decorating techniques on the Omani Khanjar has always been a little hammer and a nail..I note that old masters in the art of copper and brass plate decorating in Palestine used the same technique.

[David]

Now to the pictures~ on which it can be seen the colour range for this horn is from almost black through a nut brown to an almost olive light green... its ability to accept silver nails almost the same as the Rhino hilt makes it the best alternative yet seen and could help save the Rhino from extinction.
Two things wrong with this statement Ibrahiim.
Firstly, the vast majority of rhino horn is poached for the Asia medicine markets. So poaching is still going to take place to feed those markets regardless of any alternatives that are used for hilts in Omani Khanjars.
Secondly, the giraffe is also an endangered species. Killing off giraffes for such frivolous elitist usage is just as bad as killing rhinos, isn't it?
Lastly, the severed giraffe head was both unnecessary and in poor taste.

[Jens Nordlunde]

"Lastly, the severed giraffe head was both unnecessary and in poor taste."


I very much agree with David.

[Battara]

I am closing this thread for now.

[Battara]

This thread is now reopened ON THE CONDITION that there are no more inappropriate pictures like this.

[Kubur]

This thread is now reopened ON THE CONDITION that there are no more inappropriate pictures like this.

MMMmm even a baby elephant's head?

More seriously thank you to reopen this thread, Ibraheem did a amazing job here.

[Jim McDougall]

MMMmm even a baby elephant's head?

More seriously thank you to reopen this thread, Ibraheem did a amazing job here.


Always good to look at the lighter side, sometimes I think we can get things out of perspective, but the important thing is this thread is a valuable resource on the khanjhar, especially those of Oman.
As a virtual 'outsider' in the field of daggers, I know I have learned a great deal from Ibrahiim and the knowledge he has gained in over three decades of study on these in Oman.


The objective as I have understood in the recent posts, despite the photos which were perhaps too graphic to stand as supportive evidence, was to show that giraffe horn is indeed often used in lieu of rhino horn in these hilts. There have apparently been various speculations on the actual material used including various species' hooves etc. but here the proper identification has been revealed purposefully.


I hope we can continue to learn more on these intriguing daggers here, and focus on the varied elements of character in them to help in more accurate identification. As someone very much forensically limited in identifying materials used in hilts as well as metallurgical and design properties, I very much apprieciate this discussion and the input by Ibrahiim as well as those who have contributed.
Thank you all!

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Another interesting first for forum.
For some time we have generally accepted that Royal Khanjars have been hilted using only Rhino horn... and after all who would want to strip down these complicated decorated hilts to find out? Certainly it would obviously be a solid foundation in which to seat the various pin and silver nails giving a solid base and in honouring perhaps the great animal itself? BUT it goes without saying that the use of endangered animal horn for any reason is abhorrent and must be stopped.
Now it transpires that the infamous and equally endangered Giraffe horn or zraf hindi has been used to fill this role. It has to be said that this animal has only recently joined the endangered list red zone of animals in danger but endangered it certainly is. Below is such a weapon and has the hilt of an African Giraffe.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Switching Khanjar parts...

One aspect makes it very difficult to guage if a khanjar is original or has new parts added or old parts from another weapon added on ...Silver smiths do this all the time in refurbishing old weapons and because silver wears quite quickly it is hard to make the story out ...Here is one example of this phenomena below ~ both hilts are old rhino and one is particularly translucent .

Those with an eye for detail will note the non Omani belt on the black leathered weapon which probably means it is an Emirati weapon ...almost identical as at one time the UAE was an extension of the Dhakilliyyah or interior of Oman thus the weapons were virtually identical. UAE weapons are discussed on this thread earlier. See #248 here where there is an example of the sometimes used chevron rings at the last picture.

The Translucent hilted, black scabbard weapon, has has a lot of work done on it.
One part replaced is the band around the mid hilt that can be seen to be from a Busaidi or Royal Khanjar when compared with the other below. On further inspection it looks like two new inner large rings an the cuff on the scabbard and dagger are replacements probably also from a Royal Khanjar...I also suspect it has a new blade. this Omani Khanjar has had "the works" done to it. Not a bad refit though.. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Despite being reopened this thread has no pictures which appear to have vanished without trace,,, Where have the pictures gone ...more to the point when are they coming back... ?

[Robert]

Ibrahiim, As you well know unfortunately a simple and completely unintentional mistake was made in an attempt to remove a photo deemed offensive and inappropriate that has now resulted in the permanent loss of all photos posted to this thread. If you or any other forum member has any of the now missing photos and would like to assist in attempt to restore this thread please email them to me at coleman5@copper.net with the corresponding reply number so they can then be added back in their proper order. Posting a demand for answers to questions you already know the answer to is of little use or help. "IF" you feel the need to respond to my posting I strongly suggest you do so through PM as this thread needs no further distractions.

Robert

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Robert, thank you for your kind reply.

As indicated I am geared to continue the thread starting with the refreshed new pictures of the Giraffes head and in setting out a short roadmap to re establish the importance of this 10 page epic with hits around 95,000. This took six years in the making and was a massive data base on a subject that EAA had virtually nothing on previously; thus it is our responsibility to make it happen. :shrug:

What is envisaged is a photo log of different Omani Khanjars allowing members the chance to fire in any questions as they wish; thus opening up the thread to suggestion and feedback.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The picture recorded below shows an Omani hilt and khanjar blade .. the hilt of oddly named Zraff Hindi which is weird as india doesn't have these...but Africa does... and beside that a picture of an Okapi clearly of similar head shape to the adjoining shot of a Giraffe...and the two animals are even related by species although Okapi don't have big enough horns for a penknife let alone a batch of Khanjar hilts.

What is large enough is the giraffe or at least the male; rolling out as a 22 foot tall beast with 6 foot long legs capable of actually killing a lion by kicking off its head! The word game becomes complicated when you take the Arabic given name of the Rhino which is Zraff Afrique!

I think it wise to mention that all these animals are now on the endangered list thus caution is advised and as always when dealing with ethnographic weapons great sympathy and awareness is needed when covering such issues..

Therefor moving forward with this thread I will offer a series of never seen before examples of THE OMANI KHANJAR and hope members will come in with any questions and suggestions.

[shayde78]

Ibrahiim, As you well know unfortunately a simple and completely unintentional mistake was made in an attempt to remove a photo deemed offensive and inappropriate that has now resulted in the permanent loss of all photos posted to this thread. If you or any other forum member has any of the now missing photos and would like to assist in attempt to restore this thread please email them to me at coleman5@copper.net with the corresponding reply number so they can then be added back in their proper order. Posting a demand for answers to questions you already know the answer to is of little use or help. "IF" you feel the need to respond to my posting I strongly suggest you do so through PM as this thread needs no further distractions.

Robert

Something similar occurred with the thread about makers' marks just last year. I offered a suggestion which allowed for the content to be recreated. It may well work to restore this thread. I think fernando did the hard work on that, so it would be worth asking him for advice.

Edit- never mind...it seems the photos are now displaying.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

OMANI KHANJARS PART TWO

As a roadmap marker we seem to have arrived more or less at about PART TWO where a slight change of direction may be called for with more of the pictorial log effect and perhaps some daggers not often seen but well worth looking at, and an open house for questions from members on THE OMANI KHANJAR.

The first is this extraordinary piece below sporting a newish style of Omani work knife. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This one is difficult> The hilt is Yemeni which locals call Zraf Yemeni. It is old Rhino from a Yemeni Jambia with all original silver Yemeni silver furniture> It is an old hilt likely to be an heirloom. The man wearing it has a different pattern on his white Dishdash ...which is from the UAE. The scabbard is deeply cut/patterned on plate silver (not silver stitched).
I think this is a UAE Khanjar. :shrug:

[Battara]

Just for clarification, you mean the silver parts are made of sheet silver, not silver plate over another metal, right?

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

SEE #5 . In the usual case in Oman silver thread is woven in a pattern and affixed to the base material which is a wooden core covered in leather. Occasionally part or all of the scabbard below the belt rings may be made of sheet of varying thickness..#1 also displays some sheet work. This Khanjar in post here has quite thick sheet with a pattern hammered in. It is quite unusual but can happen and as noted this weapon seems off the periphery probably UAE and with a Yemeni hilt from an old Jambia.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This example suggests a Giraffe horn hilt (Zraff Hindi) and the maker from Nizwa... This is a Nizwaani Khanjar. (of Nizwa)
I was quite interested in this because of the two old floral studs on the hilt and the big work knife tucked behind with a striking pattern not seen before; on the handle. the two miniature shields over the outer rings are said to be of the Nizwa type but not all and many other makers copy this throughout Oman.. called the same as the Omani battleshield; Terrs. For other part names see # 218.

The pins holding on the two button shaped discs at the Hilt would drive me mad however. (I think they are iron nails!) :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

it is a while since this style has been looked at.. A meaty hilt in Sandalwood on a Dhaakiliyya khanjar (Interior) identified by the large amount of leather showing below the belt section. Sandalwood is a scented hardwood and takes quite closely packed silver pins nicely without splitting. In this case the belt is original to the khanjar with quite unusual decorated tiny terrs shields above the outer rings and a fairly unusual pattern on the lower scabbard. The silverwork above the rings reminds me of the Royal Khanjar style. As does the delicate work on the Qoba'a :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This Omani Khanjar has a hilt of giraffe horn the Omani people call ZRAF HINDI but as we now know its the African Giraffe..somehow lost or muddled in the translation... I prefer this type of decorated pin on a floral design which is of gold wash on silver; much of it rubbed off by now.. :shrug:

NOTE the miniature stack of silver cannon balls on the end of the scabbard(Qooba) do not represent cannonballs but reflect the abundant wild Mulberry bushes fruit in Oman. they appear on Omani silver jewelry and nearly always on Omani Khanjar scabbards.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

In Oman the silversmith has three sources of top quality silver with which to make Khanjars.
1. Silver ingots imported from China. The Omani mine at Sohar (MEGAN)also produces silver Ingots as a bi product of its copper mining.
2. Scrap silver ( when a lady dies it is usual for her dowry silver to be sold back to the silver smith and melted for essentially the next requirement for a silver Dowry.
3. Maria Theresa Thalers. She was ruler of Austria and Spain and her coins are commemorative dated 1780 when she died and continue to be highly respected for silver content even today. see below and also note the website among many with additional detail on this coinage> http://www.theresia.name/en/:shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The Brother to # 251

DAVID E. AT# 251 posted an interesting Omani Khanjar and just today I received one so similar to it and confirmed as also from Nizwa that it must be from the same workshop. The weapon I show has a confirmed zraf hindi (African horn hilt) in rounded top form and the plate below the hilt is identical but inverted compared to its brother although the stitching directly below the rings on both examples is the same ..
see below :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Here is a great example distinct and clear as to its provenance.. :shrug:

CLUES INCLUDE HAVING A LOOK AT #248 AND #278 AS WELL AS THE UNDERLYING STRUCTURE OF A NEW WEAPON IN THE MAKING AT #5

The Qita'a is a give away and should help pinpoint two regions where these are traditional thus the belt may then zero in on the correct choice.

The MAQBATH is little dull in this OSICONE but you may guess to its origins based on this?

See #218 for the correct parts names.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

For interest see http://khanjar.om/Types.html an excellent study of Omani Khanjars most useful in dissecting where a weapon has originated... Highly recommended to forum. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Bitter Orange Wood

I have seen thousands of Omani Khanjars, however, one material name that crops up occasionally is a so called bitter orange wood known locally as khashab al nereng but I have never seen it. does anyone have any idea what this stuff looks like.... needless to say the search is on here where it appears to be a South Asian wood... used ..it is said... as a good hilt material for Omani Khanjars as is Sandalwood but for bitter orange I never encountered it !! Any ideas? :shrug:

[Jim McDougall]

I don't have any ideas, but I have many questions as a latecomer to the world of khanjhars, and I have been remiss in not following them with you more closely .
What I have learned in trying to go through the remarkable detail and guidelines/observations you have shared here over the years and with others here keen on these daggers, is how very complex they really are.

In the recent discussions on the materials used for the hilts on khanjhars, you brought up giraffe horn, which nearly two years ago apparently was thought to have not actually been used despite the ZRAF HINDI term used. It appears that it was thought to be hoof material from giraffe possibly.

The realization that it indeed was giraffe horn you made recently seems to have been very important, and I have always thought that the rhino horn characteristically used in these was essential for either talismanic or other properties.

So what I am trying to understand is if there are indeed any certain stipulations or specific reasons for one material over another. Have any khanjhars used ivory for hilts?

The use of this orange wood material seems aesthetic, so it seems perhaps that availability of materials superceded some such requirements such as I thought were observed re: the rhino horn.

Just trying to get an idea of various hilt materials and any significances etc.
I know this has been covered through many posts, but just catching up.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Thanks Jim ~ Good questions and I agree it is a bit puzzling. Of the 11 different regions in Oman they can all sport some of the same design variables as the next region which must be slightly confusing when a researcher is trying to nail a style. I often refer back to the website http://khanjar.om/Types.html which probably serves half the equation and has a most useful regional map of Oman and distinctive regional differences and similarities.

Time has dictated that a silversmith in any of the northern regions can produce any of the 10 /11 variable styles from any of the regions and that further difficult original locating is made worse when a style is mixed. the book says that Nizwa for example produces the largest khanjars yet I have seen huge daggers from the baatinah coast and from a separate entity around Bahla a giant thing twice as big as any khanjar worn by a giant. The man was 80 plus years old and he was a true giant over 7 feet tall with hands like three mens but these are examples of one offs...and there are more of those … and even 8 and nine ringers! then the variables from the UAE sometrimes impossible to separate from Dhakiliyya Khanjars next door ….but I digress..

The incredible appearance of the facts surrounding the Giraffe horn

The horn from the male African Giraffe is quite substantial although it is not so translucent as the Rhino ...in fact it is quite dark..though its colour can vary from dark to greenish...its not translucent but has excellent acceptance of silver nails and is used on both normal 4 ringers and on Royal khanjars. It is however an endangered species thus ought to be avoided although old giraffe may be acceptable it certainly is not to me.

What I think are excellent hilts are the hardwoods such as Sandalwood which I am about to show on site and this other bitter orange which I must track down since as a south Asian wood I am absolutely certain it is one of those old traded hardwood varieties that must be brought to the table for recognition and as a replacement hilt for these endangered animals.

On Fils (Ivory) the first big assault was on Ivory was from the USA !! in the shape of billiard balls and piano keys. Indeed it was done via an American shipping company operating direct from Zanzibar at the time of Saiid The Great.

The whats in a word angle goes wild here when the old Arabic words get used>>>>Zraf Hindi means Indian Giraffe and even the term for old replacement Yemeni Jambia hilts on Omani work>>>Zraf Yemeni... and the use of Hasheb Norang for bitter orange wood which I still have not traced. The name in Arabic for Rhino horn is also odd>>Zraf Afrique.. AFRICAN GIRAFFE :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Just to insert an Ivory hilt...from #247

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This is an extremely detailed floral design with what appears to be Indian influence...not surprising since their close proximity as trading partners throughout history not to mention the fact that Sheherezad one of the wives of Saiid the Great actually designed the new fangled hilt on the Royal Khanjar in about 1835 from Indian designs.
What I don't prefer to see are the rings which are woven, I think, to a newer design that clash in my view.
Here is an intricate design with zraf hindi hilt which is of course African Giraffe. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Focusing on a little Ethnographics ...The Funun is the set of Traditions played out in Oman in dance music poetry and singing in a form of pantomime to rhythm and often an ancient musical score . In fact this entire set of Genres was the means by which traditional performance passed these performances down the generations so that in researching weapons the Sword or Khanjar dances can be traced far into the past. Please see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87h_TNLHRGY&list=RD87h_TNLHRGY&start_radio=1#t=1 for the Bara'a The Khanjar Dance

[Jim McDougall]

Focusing on a little Ethnographics ...The Funun is the set of Traditions played out in Oman in dance music poetry and singing in a form of pantomime to rhythm and often an ancient musical score . In fact this entire set of Genres was the means by which traditional performance passed these performances down the generations so that in researching weapons the Sword or Khanjar dances can be traced far into the past. Please see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87h_TNLHRGY&list=RD87h_TNLHRGY&start_radio=1#t=1 for the Bara'a The Khanjar Dance

Thank you so much for adding this visual look into these important traditional events, in which the weaponry is so much an integral part. These have long been overlooked in the study of Omani arms, which in itself has only ever had a brief inclusion in the study of the arms of Arabia.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Thanks Jim, The Funun is almost completely overlooked in appreciating Omani weapons . The key is that here are the passed down enacted Traditions some beginning at the outset of the religion here. The weapons Genres are vital in our understanding of their place in Omani history and point to their use in the socio religious reason for their use and development. No study of Omani weapons can take place without looking at The Funun.

Below is rather an odd one out since it appears in Salalah in Southern Oman …(Dhofar) where it is worn by Jebali mountain tribesmen. This weapon is the same essentially to what their distant cousins wear in close by regions of Yemen...What is also peculiar is that the same weapon crops up in the OMANI Wahiba desert in North East Oman. In this case the hilt is the now well known (on these pages) use of Giraffe Horn (now endangered) from African sources called in Omani Arabic zraf hindi. Typically worn on a simple narrow leather belt.

In Salalah they call it al Genoobi and in the Sharqiyya al Hanshiah. for further detail see http://khanjar.om/Parts.html and look under TYPES.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This example looks lethal... and something about the slender hilt makes it look dangerous ..It has two new studs and pin decorations surrounding and is in fact Rhino and looking at the wear on the hilt it is old..So zraf afrique it is...and with a new cuff. The scabbard is non existent thus it seems this old dagger is looking for a match...This style could be a degraded Royal Khanjar hilt with all the silver stripped off or... possibly this two star design is called as shams, which means sun, and this kind of handle is locally known as the Al Sifani handle. This type of handle named after the Bani Saif family or Omani tribes in Ash Sharqiah governorate. This family was well known for this type of handle according to the Omani khanjar makers. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The incidence of double or trebble dagger and only one scabbard are increasing so the owner can change his preferred dagger to suit.. The weapon suddenly becomes a Royal Khanjar ... :shrug: I don't like it, however, as there's too much silver plate work on the Royal Khanjar in my opinion and there are missing pins and a stud on the left hand dagger type... they are both too shiny for my liking … but that is often the case with new silver.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Here a good well made geometric pattern throughout and well designed reflections in silver stitched leather below the belt accurately drawn and executed... In the split palmette style but with clever and artistic interpretation throughout.( PERHAPS A HINT OF MAGIC SQUARES ) Hilt in African Giraffe Horn ...Zraf Hindi. Unusually at the cuff is the ancient VVVVVVV pattern also seen on some of the cuffs of the battle swords Sayf Yamaani. The Qoba (crown) is given quite delicate treatment here with artistic decoration in the same material as the rest of the weapon... new silver ...which will develop a Patina very quickly.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The use of gold coloured cord to wrap the lower scabbard in a typical rendition of the Royal Khanjar ... You may recall that the Royal khanjar is designated by the hilt (only) change made in about 1830 /40 by Sheherazad one of the wives of Saiid the Great... Thus not constrained by the number of rings in the scabbard it can have 4 or 7 rings... Cloth belt antique examples can be seen at the excellent rendition on http://omanisilver.com/ :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Possibly one of the nicer khanjars I have viewed this week . Its a Nizwani (of Nizwa) and has a zraf hindi hilt...a misnomer... (Giraffe African) Hammered into the horn adding weight and design are silver and brass pins in a geometric design.This weapons scabbard has a silver sheet backing it below the belt which is just visible. The newer chain dangling off one edge may have any accouterments on it such as the tweezers or a tobacco pouch in silver with silver pipe.. It has the crossed swords and khanjar at centre on a button. The emblem of Oman... Thus the chain is post about 1970.

It has two replacement linkages holding it to the belt...which is a standard leather with slver wire stitching . I dont like the linkages ! but they are now acceptable. The scabbard shows wear under the silver weaving probably termite in places.. and I think there's glue holding the weave together but it will last a few more years then maybe a refit. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A couple of Royal Khanjars to compare. Sheherazad really set a standard with this very ornate hilt and it was only the hilt that she re modelled. The scabbard is or was a typical design of what was the Muscat Khanjar. Indian design is prevalent in her hilt pattern to brighten up the day of her husband; Saiid Sultan ...also known as Saiid the Great...Thus was born The Saiidi Khanjar...or The Royal Khanjar. in about 1830.

Generally I tend to advise collectors to avoid this style as it is the one most copied for the tourist and gift market but in one picture here you can see that this is a serious Khanjar outlet with rows of weapon parts for buyers to see.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

THE COLOUR RANGE IN ZRAF HINDI HILTS.

These two OMANI khanjars illustrate the colour range of Giraffe Horn. The material accepts silver pins without cracking and is now often seen on these weapons despite the danger of the diminishing of animals in the wild. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Blades are an interesting subject these days with all manner of items entering the system ...the incidence of wootz looking blades is on the increase from as far afield as Russia... and simply called Russi.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This Omani Khanjar displays a famous pattern internationally renowned from the Scottish Paisley Tie design taken from the Indian "Miri Bota" leaf pattern as in the textile displayed below.

I would probably have the blade cleaned up and the dark marks on the cuff polished off or cleaned with toothpaste..The hilt is Giraffe.. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Silver goes almost black with age and patina ..This one is developing age nicely ...but dont worry as it quickly returns after cleaning ... Heres a Rhino Hilt on a well balanced Khanjar set up.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

At last a sensible alternative to Rhino and Giraffe .OLIVE WOOD..Discovered as a brilliant hilt for Khanjars; accepting dense silver pins and a beautiful polish ...In a report in The Oman Observer 27/01/2018 Ray Petersen stated;
Quote"The wood of the olive tree, known by its botanical name of Olea Europaea, has become the latest ‘must have’ men’s fashion accessory according to Nizwa silver craftsman, and businessman, Daoud Al Tiwani. Due to restricted supplies of ivory and horn, in particular, Tiwani was drawn to using olive wood in the manufacture of his business’s amazing traditional khanjars quite by accident. He was using some windfall olive wood for traditional canes when he discovered tone of the polishing processes offered an astounding depth of color and emphasized the grain, which is the natural pattern and direction of the wood, to an amazingly appealing degree."Unquote.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Hizam ...or... Hizak. The name of the Khanjar Belt.

Its a while since we looked at Khanjar belts and the predominant pattern on silver stitched on leather styles with rectangles filled with geometric little squares being illustrated below. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A good short write up on Omani Khanjars and a few of its makers is at https://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/the-art-of-the-khanjar-how-oman-s-famous-daggers-are-made-1.834999

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

I bring to the table what looks like Elephant Tusk. But it isn't.
This is a composite material like high density plastic...Here its
called Ameriki… A clue to where it is made...and a great
substitute for Elephant (Fils) :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The real stuff looks like this..

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Zraff al Hindi IS THE OMANI Arabic for what is in fact African Giraffe. This material takes a lot of pins and when there were plentiful of that species running wild it was thought of as an excellent material.. It is endangered now thus should and is protected. There are superb hardwoods available instead such as Sandalwood and Olive which fit the bill for quality and accepting pins. Giraffe does not reflect light and has a rather dull reaction thus in my view another good reason to go for the alternatives. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Rhino is easy to spot as a powerful mobile fone light shows it up immediately. See below the reaction to light and what it looks like with no illumination. :shrug: Ibrahiim al Balooshi.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This "4 ringer" arranged on a Giraffe horn hilt (Zraff Hinde) actually African Giraffe. The silver pins applied in a parallel lines with two tramlines of pins running around the perimeter of the work and the lines quite uniform. Please see 302 for a similar set up. :shrug: Ibrahiim al Balooshi.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This weapon offers a chance to look at some detective work on the construction … There are two possible locations ...Dhofar or Sharqiyya and the material which is Rhino likely taken from an earlier weapon as a rehilt job. There are old silver parts appearing to be suggesting turned down silver projections at the ears of the pommel but they are from an old Khanjar as miniature Terrs or shields usually over the end rings on the Khanjar. The silver is in the Omani fashion and is pure silver not mixed with copper...The blade is a replacement as is the brand new scabbard I will show later...

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Heres the full Monty; Here's the full Monty; This weapon has had a total rebuild but is something of a train crash using parts of other weapons unrelated to each other thus the difficulty of placing it … despite a fully rebuilt, brand new, scabbard. It thus achieves the stamp "Runt" yet has a degree of charm about it. Who knows maybe someone will rebuild the weapon sympathetic to the original style whatever that was or is... :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

:shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

:shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A reminder of the African Giraffe head horn of the male of (the endangered)species. (A.K.A. Zraf Hindi translatable as Rhino/Giraffe of India) This hilt not of silver plate but of thousands of tiny individual hammered in silver nails giving a heavyweight feel to this hilt. It was my view that this pinning decoration mimicked the grain of Rhino Horn when viewed from the pommel end under sharp torchlight... This colour of giraffe horn is very light almost olive and can vary up to a dense dark brown shade...occasionally streaked through with light bands. Please see #318 above. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Another Khanjar example...Khanjars are available in single double or triple combinations depending how much you want to spend and a vast choice of matched belts can be made ...Here are a few short belt selection which would be matched with a long belt … :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This is a first. I have never seen such a straight forward Omani Dhakiliyyah (Interior) new Khanjar. The architecture is superb, precise and exact for a working dagger. No decoration other than the basics...simple yet effective.. Everything right historically here … even a simple belt. Whoever made this weapon knows his Interior style. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A most unusual looking Khanjar. So what is it? :shrug:

This is a 4 ringer Omani Khanjar from Muscat. Remember that it was the hilt that marked the style as "Royal" ...Which this is! The body is constructed using silver wound and gold wound cord plus some silver decoration. The hilt is Busaidi form ...Thus a Royal Khanjar.

[Edster]

Ibrahiim,

Thank you so much for sharing these magnificent khanjars. They are truly works of art not just ethnographic weapons. It seems that their quality has increased over time. I have a few questions that would enhance my appreciation of them.

What % silver alloy is used?

Are the blades, while excellent, considered a commodity, as the vehicle that gives the silver work a weapon quality?

Range of man-hours to make a complete first-class outfit: grip, scabbard and belt?

Range of retail prices for the complete first-class outfit?

Market? Omanis or export to Gulf states or local visitors? I imagine that they would be a prestige item to be worn only on special occasions as opposed to daily dress.

Does Oman have any regulations to prohibit, control or otherwise manage the importation and use of giraffe horn?

Best regards,
Ed

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Salaams Ed Great questions and here goes~

The Silver is highest grade obtainable and used to be around the 92% which was why they used Maria Theresa Thalers melted down . The other source is silver on the international market again of the highest quality. They import a lot from China but also have their own mines at Sohar .. Megan ...Silver extracted as they dig out copper … Ingots can be purchased there and again top quality stuff . The other source has always been traditionally from a ladys dowry when she dies and since that is always 100% top quality it was a way of retaining a degree of purity in silver. Silver when it is mixed with other metals is dull and lifeless but harder and lasts longer . Pure silver goes into a patina all of its own as it oxidises fast.

CITES is in effect here and the rules are strict for use of hilt material. It amazes me why more use is not made of mammoth and other excellent materials and I am just about to show a white material composite fibrous ceramic that looks and feels like Ivory and takes all the pins like the real thing. Regretably not everyone will take notice of the dwindling stocks of these wild animals. Giraffe horn comes off dead adult African giraffes usually fully grown adult males. The fact is they are protected in law.

Price I cant speak about but the top makers can demand high end valuations and any that are low priced are usually not original Omani crafted..It is quite incredible that the main tools are still a six inch nail and a toffee hammer!

Usually make time is about a month ...It varies on the degree of decoration...The maker will make the belt and scabbard and hilt but may also farm out parts to other makers so you can have a master scabbard maker and a belt maker a hundred or more miles apart... The maker just puts them together although there are makers that can do the whole thing themselves.

The Blade is the most important part. The inspection of a blade looks quite ridiculous ! Taste smell musical note when struck !! So far as I can tell all blades are imported. It is said that meteorite metal is the best ...though not easy to find? :) New products include Russian blades nicely made in some type of wootz or even only a surface decoration ?

Most Omani Khanjars go to the demand in Oman as other countries close by have their own styles like UAE Bahrain Saudia and Yemen thus the tradition is very strong right here. Naturally the network of Arabian style souks presents Omani work around the region but its best market is right here at home. Millions of tourists also have a massive world market effect.


The weapon is Iconic and the badge of office of Omani heads of family thus can be worn at any time for any occasion by heads of state or men of any age including Eids, weddings, tribal and other meetings or just worn to go down the souk...

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A note here in support of new materials for hilts where I show a poly ceramic form that looks exactly like Ivory and accepts silver nails in the same way without cracking and does not break when dropped. :shrug:

[Edster]

Thanks for the thoughtful answers. They round out the khanjar's role within its social context.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Some thought has been put into the belt ...an old style to match this set. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Here are some old belts as examples ~

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A Word on Blades. (#257 also Refers.)

The excellent work at Omanisilver.com mentions Omani Khanjar Blades as being historically imported from Solingen and as essentially basic blades. Indeed I have seldom seen (until recently) examples of anything other than standard basic quality except on the odd occasion of a Wootz derivative turning up. I know of one Russian importer who specializes in such blades. I have also heard of mysterious blades made from falling meteorites etc etc. The process local people go through is also quite amazing with taste smell and musical note when struck with a flicked finger nail and whether or not a blade and khanjar can be lifted by the very point of the blade between finger and thumb...
Therefor since these are passed down structures I suggest that these methods are mythical (although interesting) . I have never actually seen a failed blade...After all their main purpose is fairly simple thus a basic blade is actually fine.

Blades below from Khanjar Shops. One illustrates blades with some degree of treatment either to the surface or Wootz while the other are the more common form; simple and basic.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Much of the designs used in decorating Omani Khanjars are not recorded and in fact the techniques are mainly done with a hammer and a 6 inch nail thus students trying to observe a technique often cannot find research …

There isn't any\much except here at EAA and on the remarkable website at http://www.khanjar.om/Materials.html.

Here are some further clues in Silver Omani Jewellery pieces … Please see https://britishmuseum.org/pdf/BMTRB_5_Mongiatti_Suleman_and_Meeks.pdf

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Reference:
A. http://www.khanjar.om/Types.html



I have been on the lookout for a certain style of Yemeni dagger which I knew was almost identical to a rarely seen omani variant from the Dhofar Region. Here it is and you may note the main giveaway is the belt...a simple leather style but in the case of the scabbard another hint to its origin using script hammered in near the top. The decorative silver almost birdlike winged structure decorates the top half of the scabbard. The hilt appears to be high density fibre of some sort..Reference A shows the Omani variant and under three different names usually Genoobi (Southern) is used for this style.

A YEMENI DAGGER ON A YEMENI BELT IN OMAN.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This one is quite remarkable for its superb balance in design and particularly the crown at the end of the scabbard and the decoration at the lower hilt and on the top part of the scabbard which are all matching in a beautiful scroll style with blackened pattern almost in the style of neillo.
my instinct says a dagger from the Interior...because of all the leather below the belt...The design on the lower scabbard is similar to human form amulets from Adam in the Dhakilliyya...The interior.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

It may be remembered that the Royal Khanjar is formed by a Royal Hilt ...Not by the number of rings or the scabbard style but by the Hilt Form so what is this? :shrug:

It is a Royal Khanjar.

(#327 SHOWS A SIMILAR SCABBARD WITH A LOT OF LEATHER SHOWING MARKING IT AS AN INTERIOR WEAPON... THE DHAKILLIYA)

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

SEE THE VARIETY IN COLOUR ON THESE HILTS WHICH ARE AFRICAN GIRAFFE... :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

A Major breakthrough has been developed in reproduction hilts using horsehair ...virtually identical to a Rhino and I suspect very similar to Giraffe... please see the document covered by Mi, R., Shao, Z.Z. & Vollrath, F. Creating artificial Rhino Horns from Horse Hair. Sci Rep 9, 16233 (2019) doi:10.1038/s41598-019-52527-5 at


https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-52527-5

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Occasionally I see designs that I seem to recognize but that I have never seen applied on khanjars ~ this is one of them and is both dramatic and well balanced ...but what is the Scabbard design from?

(The writing simply says this is already sold)

[Battara]

Interesting the variety of giraffe grips.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Salaams Battara, In order of priority it is something like Rhino, Ivory, Giraffe, scented wood, olive then plastic....then it deteriorates dramatically to bog standard wood ..there may be the odd horn I haven't seen but the top three have dominated hilts for probably centuries. The confusion now lifted between rhino and giraffe and the name puzzle described earlier has also thrown collectors for ages. The point about these hilts is that Giraffe horn takes all the pins a rhino hilt would take but is duller under light than Rhino...
My earlier note outlines the breakthrough in the use of treated horsehair (tail hair) which is just as good as Rhino and Giraffe but a fraction of the price could set a precedent..although some would say it makes no difference. I would like to see it tried and an example launched for all to see.

[Richard G]

The scabbard cover next to the chape (Qub'a ?) reminds me of a the stylised christian fish symbol.
Regards
Richard

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

There are many examples of rectangular geometry in Omani silver work and in the khanjar waist belt decoration and on Khanjar scabbards . Below I show one stylistic signature from Said the Great that seems to suggest a possible link...I add similar sword hilt geometric designs and in the rectangular silver adornment from the region of south Nizwa; Adam in a style of Djinn often seen on necklaces; protecting the wearer.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

I thought this Omani Khanjar looked well balanced and nicely worked>>> It came with a few clues such as the hilt in Zraff Afrique which as you know is Rhino . It is a post 1970 weapon as it has the Omani Crest stamped on the belt links... :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Here is an unusual Omani Khanjar with a weave in gilded cord to the main curve in the Scabbard See 328 for a silvered cord weave. For similar silver work see 1 27 107 128 144 203 223 236 268 … here on thread>
this appears as quite unusual as this is a 4 Ringer.

WHAT IS IT CALLED AND WHAT KIND OF HILT WILL IT CARRY?? :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The above khanjar scabbard appears to be ready to accept The Al Saidi Dagger even though it is a 4 ringer... Remember that Royal Al Saidi Khanjars are designated by the hilt although it is often assumed there is influence in the scabbard as well...but technically the scabbard is nothing to do with it...Only the Hilt. Thus scabards are 4or 7 rings and there are some khanjars with more and even some with two) The simple fact is that before this style was invented by one of the rulers wives in about 1830 the Muscat khanjar had 7 rings and that the scabbard was adorned as it is today and unchanged... the only redone item or component was the hilt said to incorporate Indian design elements … the new fresh look said to have been done to brighten the day of the ruler. you may all remember that something similar happened in the sayf yemaani when it was iconized ..with a similar hilt.

It stands to reason therefor that the apparently fancy scabbard does not designate al saidi khanjar born out by simply looking at 347 which has that scabbard but not the hilt.. so it is probably a Muscat weapon...

Please see http://www.khanjar.om/Materials.html for an exacting description of coloured yarn useage in these scabbards ….and other materials.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

I have never seen one of these variants with quite the hilt decoration and shape ...thus I should be quiet and take your ideas..perhaps http://www.khanjar.om/Materials.html has some clue to the style?

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Having looked at this odd species I assume the hilt simply isn't finished or that the new owner will round off the pommel or go for a Tee shaped style instead..What I do know is the material of the hilt .. It's Giraffe or as it has been called for centuries Zraff Hindi which roughly means Indian Rhino...which of course we now realise actually means African Giraffe. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Just a note to echo what is a relatively new type of fastener and buckle holder, often seen with the post 1970 Omani emblem of two curved bladed swords which appeared at about the same time as the demise of Saaid the Great in 1856 and via Zanzibar and combined with the Omani Khanjar but not used as an emblem until 1970 on the takeover by the previous ruler.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

The belt with the dominant black leather showing more likely to be associated with a UAE dagger but may be seen on interior weapons Dhakiliyya...an area linked in history in this part of the world..The Weapon is an Omani Bussaidi Royal Khanjar. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

I wanted to revisit this peculiar weapon which resembles its Yemeni cousin at #337 yet is distinct in two quite different regions in Oman ...The Dhofar region around Salalah in Southern Oman and the Sharqiyyah in the East of Oman...#350. all the above may usually be seen on a simple leather belt although I have seen Omani items on a silvered belt. The Yemeni variant is also often inscribed with script on either the front or back. I have also see a second belt on the Omani weapon with bullet slots often for Martini Henry Ammo.
In the weapons illustrated you can notice the central spine of the blade flanked by two other fullers not normally seen on other blades. It is assumed these are imported as are 99% of Omani Khanjar blades either from Solingen Germany or perhaps India or Yemen. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Here I place some pictures of the new tendency to build multiple daggers around the same scabbard. There is no hard and fast rule on this method although the Genoobi form will not fit the profile of the usual Northern Omani hilt. What is interesting is the use of the Royal "Busaidi" hilt on either the 7 ringer or 4 ringer scabbard... and since it is the hilt that determines that style not the scabbard; this is entirely correct.
It may also be noted that in creating the al Busaidi hilt on the old Omani Battle Sword or Saif Yemaani it is only the hilt which is given that configuration in circa 1840 AD which determines its form... The same applies to the Busaidi Khanjar... Just the hilt! :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

This smaller and typically well balanced Weapon is from the famous coastal city of Sur. The pattern is chequered in silver geometry sewed onto the leather scabbard . The belt outer rings are rather in the newer fashion of twisted silver decoration ...Some like ..others don't. The hilt is Giraffe horn. :shrug:

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

On blades which you would think everything that could be written has been written there is scarce proof absolute of the origin of manufacture... Suffice to say however is that the point of manufacture was probably split between Sanaa in Yemen and India and Persia.

There is support in some quarters that German blades entered the equation and I cannot say why not although no blades I have seen confirm nor deny this possibility and none I have ever seen are struck with makers marks as such.

It is a fact that Omani Khanjar blades have no marks stamped or chiseled into them. Some as seen on these pages have variation in the central raised rib in that some have flanking grooves placed either side of the main rib seen at #354 while some have three distinct ribs like this one below called The One with three (grooves?)... a parallel description of an Omani sword with three of these..

And so for now we go with the idea of Persia, India, Yemen and Germany as the origin of provision of Omani Khanjar blades although I have heard rumours that some were locally made and some were made from meteorites...and others from Johor or wootz material (this is true in part because Russian blades in wootz are today available)...Personally however, I think myths may have crept into the mix but record this post as "interesting" for later study and confirmation. :shrug:

[Edster]

It's interesting that all the blades seem to have the same dimensions and curve profile. Also, except for the Royal hilted the scabbard is the seat of distinctive design and embellishment as well as amounts of labor and silver (cost).

What is the name and significance of the conical pieces next to the rings?

Thanks for sharing!!!

Ed

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Reference:
A. http://www.khanjar.om/Materials.html
B. http://omanisilver.com

Thank you Ed, The regional general designs are tuned to a central likeness with specific designs from area to area. The linked websites of omanisilver.com and the website with the Omani Khanjar thesis break these down from each region as seen at references above.…

The conical shapes have two names hat or shield of which I prefer to choose the latter; Terrs… In the Khanjar dance a Shield or Terrs is used in the performance which is in the traditions or Funoon.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

We know that the main traded items entering the Zanzibar hub were Slaves ..Rhino Horn and hides and Ivory. It has been quite difficult to obtain Ivory Khanjar examples with specific high definition pictures but luckily we have a couple for forum. High density plastic has been used and makes a reasonable substitute however here is the real thing and we can only hope more substitute materials can step up such as Mamoth ?… :shrug:

[Gonzoadler]

The omani Khanjar is a very interesting dagger. To keep this thread alive I show a very old example. It is silver mounted, the hilt is made of Rhino horn and with a ring of solid gold. I think it is a very charismatic piece.

[A.alnakkas]

Lovely dagger, Gonzoadler

[Gonzoadler]

Made some spontaneous pictures of another Khanjar from my collection:


Scabbard and hilt should be antique but maybe the blade was replaced later.
I also added a macro shot of the rhino handle.

As I bought it, a little piece of parchment was with it.
Maybe anyone can help me with the translation?

Regards

[Gonzoadler]

...

[Gonzoadler]

Macro and parchment.

[Ian]

Gonzo,

The author of this thread has not been seen on these pages for a couple of years. I'm afraid you may not get very much response from the rest of us because Ibrahiim was the authority on these knives.

Ian.

[Gonzoadler]

No problem, but maybe I get some help with the inscription on the parchment, would be better than nothing.

[Peter Hudson]

The dagger with lots of black leather showing below the belt is as well as being an Omani style occasionally seen in the interior (Dhakilliyya) but is the form adopted by the UAE geographically right next door. It stars as one of the designs shown in the thread earlier. I persuaded one of my craftsmen to make some new ones a few years ago and that can be seen in the thread and others are illustrated with the same leather work . The UAE KHANJAR.

Peter Hudson.

[Gustav]

So I guess Ibrahiim is Peter Hudson now.

"All the world's a stage"

[Peter Hudson]

So I guess Ibrahiim is Peter Hudson now.

"All the world's a stage"

Hello Gustav, Indeed you could say that.

Regards, Peter Hudson.

[Kubur]

I miss Ibrahiim...
:(
But Peter is probably more exotic.
:cool:

[Peter Hudson]

I miss Ibrahiim...
:(
But Peter is probably more exotic.
:cool:

Well, I have missed your exotic posts and great knowledge but now Im back and looking forward to some great discussions.

Regards Peter Hudson.

[Gonzoadler]

The dagger with lots of black leather showing below the belt is as well as being an Omani style occasionally seen in the interior (Dhakilliyya) but is the form adopted by the UAE geographically right next door. It stars as one of the designs shown in the thread earlier. I persuaded one of my craftsmen to make some new ones a few years ago and that can be seen in the thread and others are illustrated with the same leather work . The UAE KHANJAR.

Peter Hudson.


Hello,

thank you for the informations! It's nice to have somebody here again who has some knowledge about these daggers.
What do you think about the dagger I showed before with the gold ring and the old blade with two midribs. How old could be that Khanjar?

Regards
Robin

[Peter Hudson]

The omani Khanjar is a very interesting dagger. To keep this thread alive I show a very old example. It is silver mounted, the hilt is made of Rhino horn and with a ring of solid gold. I think it is a very charismatic piece.

Hello Gonzoadler...Sorry to miss this one ... The question on the two raised ribs on the blade is really a question tied to Omani Khanjar blades and where they came from. I have only seen a few multi ribs as they are usually one only on each side of the blade.. They say that blades were imported from Persia India Yemen and Germany. Not usually wootz style just plain steel. I have what looks like a triple rib on the thread...It is said that some blades were made locally and even some made from meteorites..
The gold ring around the Maqbath( hilt) is interesting ... Is it solid gold? Usually where gold is used to enhance the design it is pulled off a roll which is gilded but not solid. A pin or silver nail is usually tacked to secure the work .
The hilt is normally covered in either a silver plate or in a mass of tiny pins the same shape as a plate...see examples all over the thread.
The hilt raises the major question I think... Is it a Rhino Hilt or Giraffe... ? One ear is clipped and in fact the overall condition is a dagger that has had a tough life... A good polish up with silvo or toothpaste might resurrect it and you might want to look out for a belt ...and even consider a few accoutrements... My suspicion points to this being a UAE dagger or Dhakiliyyah but it is a reasonable example ... Thank you for posting.

Peter Hudson.

[Gonzoadler]

Thank you for your answer. The handle is made of rhino horn and the ring is definetely solid gold. It was fixed with 3 forged iron nails, but one is lost.
I don't want to polish that dagger because I like the patina a lot and this piece is very delicate, especially the embroidery.
I will make some additional pictures to show them here.

[Gonzoadler]

Here is a picture of the handle material, made with a Dino camera. If some pictures from other details are wanted, I will make them.

Regards
Robin

[Peter Hudson]

I have extracted a superb quote from an earlier thread by Tim Simmons on a query over a possible Omani Khanjar where he detailed a pdf of probably the best information on Omani Khanjars...the contents of which were the subject of a thesis on the subject by an Omani student about 6 years ago...and which I should place here for reference ...Thus please see https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/195632974.pdf

Regards,

Peter Hudson.

[Ian]

Hello Peter and welcome back.

Thank you for this excellent reference. Unfortunately, the file size exceeds the maximum allowed for this site. It would have been nice to post it here as an attachment, and thereby have a permanent record for the Archives. Let's hope the link does not get broken in future. :)

Regards,

Ian.