It seems to me that much like the janbiyya, khanjhar and many forms of dagger which are still worn in various cultural spheres as elements of traditional costume, the koummya is still worn as well. In this case, wouldnt many of the more modern examples of these weapons be intended as genuine traditional pieces for actual wear as well as being picked up by tourists?
It seems that most of the koummya that have been posted in recent times here have typically been quite modern. Does anyone have earlier examples they might share to get a better idea of how these might appear?
I think these are very attractive daggers, and was once told the pommel reflected the influence of earlier Italian weapons of that trade along the North African coastal ports, specifically the cinqueda. I would very much like to hear thoughts on that, or other observations on this distinctive pommel form.
All best regards,
Jim
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