Kard for comment

[Gavin Nugent]

Local find, ex Wallis & Wallis UK, Persian Kard circa 17th Century. I thought it unusual and decided to bring it home.
I would love to know more about it from those more learned on the subject.

regards

Gav

[ALEX]

Local find, ex Wallis & Wallis UK, Persian Kard circa 17th Century. ...
Gav
Gav, did they, Wallis people, claimed it is 17th Century? Just curions... I do not see this Kard as being 400 y.o. ;) in addition to Persian :)
Similar silver coftgari decor could have been done in India, Syria, Turkey, Cent.Asia + 12 other countries:-) The scabbard tip in particular makes me think it is Syrian - I've seen similar tips on not so old Syrian daggers. Are there any marks or stamps, and also - have you test-etched the blade for wootz?

[Gavin Nugent]

Hi Alex,

No Wootz that I can speak of, a little bit of lamination though.
I too could not see it being that old either, my thoughts were late 1800's early 1900's but alas I beleive it was described as such back in 1996.
The Koftgari patterns, can they reveal anything further about the origins of this piece?

regards

Gav

[ALEX]

Gav, I believe the koftgari pattern, and especially koftgari workmanship, application style and quality can tell a lot. Based on it, I believe it is Syrian work, but similar designs can be seen on Turkish and Kaucasian items. Persian and Indian style is usually more elaborate. I also agree with your age estimate.
Let's see what others say.

[Gavin Nugent]

I just now thought to mention the miniture dimensions too, maybe they also may help further confirn Syria as the region. Over all in the scabbard it is 8&3/4inches long. Out of the scabbard it is about 8&1/4 inches and has a razor sharp 4&1/2 inch blade. Thanks for your help and interest Alex.

regards

Gavin