Newly Acquired Ivory Hilt Sudanese Arm Dagger

[Aslan Paladin]

I have always wanted to have a fine specimen of a Sudanese arm dagger, specially one with an ivory pommel or with silver bling, but NZ's restriction on importation of daggers has always made me hesitant to get one. So i was pleasantly surprised when one such dagger was offered in a local auction site. And the hilt was entirely made of ivory! I have seen plenty of this dagger with ivory pommels that usually date from the mid 20th century but I have only seen a handful of this type with a full ivory hilt. Could anyone tell me the most likely date for this Sudanese arm dagger? Thanks in advance for any comments.

[G. Mansfield]

You have gotten very lucky with this dagger as it is a fine example! I believe these types judging from the blade forging and hilt style as coming from the southern Sudan rather than the typical Omdurman or Khartoum styles frequently seen. As one who collects these arms from Sudan and having the opportunity to own a few, I'm leaning toward early 1900s-20s but I am no expert either. I recently just missed this expensive beauty composed of rhino originating from the same general area. Great catch!

Best,
-Geoff

[mariusgmioc]

Yes, very nice example! Congratulations! :)