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Old 2nd March 2008, 08:49 PM   #6
Jim McDougall
Arms Historian
 
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Route 66
Posts: 10,192
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Hello Hommine,
Just as Jeff has noted, this is an Omani kattara, and as he states, these are indeed quite rare and extremely desirable as collectibles, especially with scabbard. They are described in Robert Elgood "The Arms &Armour of Arabia" fig.2:13 and 2:15 (p.17-18). It seems unclear on whether these were made in Oman proper or the Omani empire elsewhere, but strongest case would suggest Oman. Elgood dates them 17th-18th centuries.
These always seem to be as yours, with silver decoration removed, the holes correspond to riveting on those which remain with covering.
Unfortunately the mark is too vague to really make out. Many of the blades on these are early Solingen blades, and its hard to say whether the mark is a cartouche or European makers mark.

Extremely nice acquisition, and thank you so much for posting it here!!!

All best regards,
Jim
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