This truly is interesting, and a beautiful illustration of the Yemeni janbiyya as noted, in one of the earliest provenanced examples. This exact photo (though in black & white) is seen in Robert Elgoods "Arms and Armour of Arabia" (p.87, fig. 9.36) and notes that it was obtained in San'a in 1763 by Niebuhr. While Niebuhr was indeed a member of the Danish expedition sent by Frederick V of Denmark, he was actually a German student who was Hanoverian. It seems the members of the group were felled over a period of time from various forms of disease and unfortunate circumstances rather than any singular and tragic event. The 'odyssey' of Niebuhr continued in a number of other destinations outside of Arabia with his return to Denmark in 1767.
I think most of the interest I have incurred on these janbiyya, especially those of Yemen, has come from various posts and writings by Michael, the best being the very comprehensive and detailed post from August, 2005 describing many of the traditions and history of these important daggers.
It would seem that this example from the Nationalmuseet in Copenhagen collected by Niebuhr in 1763 may reflect the silverwork of the well established Jewish artisans in San'a, who were responsible for much of the silverwork in San'a for many centuries. The Jewish Quarter there is known as Qaa al Yahud, or simply as al Qaa.
While this example is interesting as the earliest provenanced example of the Yemeni janbiyya known to the West, it seems likely there must be earlier references in Islamic accounts which may describe these most important daggers. It seems I have seen references noting bas reliefs that may illustrate iconographically early Arabian daggers, but I have not found the sources on them. As Michael has noted, the "Rihla" accounts by Ibn Battuta (1304-1368) of his travels include his numerous Hajj into Arabia from about 1325-1330.
What is clear is that the use of rhino horn for use in the hilts of these daggers is of the utmost importance, and the practice of using the material for placement on weapons has been in place probably since medieval times.
The material used in the hilt and the mounts signify status including social rank, profession and often even tribal origins as well as the profound properties often believed imbued by long held beliefs and traditions associated with the rhinoceros horn. The many magical and mythical legends associating the rhinoceros, narwhal and the unicorn seem to permeate history throughout many cultural spheres, and appear to have important connections to the traditional history of these dagger hilts.
Not only interesting, but a most compelling example Michael!!
and thank you so much for posting it.
All very best regards,
Jim
Another image of Niebuhr