Hi David,
In reviewing the excellent work that Louis Pierre has compiled on the nimcha, there is an 18th century example identified as Moroccan, which has similar blade form, and a stamped mark similar to yours in like location on the blade.
It would seem to further emphasize the Moroccan origin and of the correct period.
Also, in looking at the interesting style of the blade sectioning, there seems to be a particular 'stepped' effect that reminds me a great deal of the blades found on the 'koummya' daggers, also Moroccan. While these, like the nimcha can be found in use throughout the Maghreb as far as Tunis, the key centers for manufacture were typically in Moroccan regions.
A note on the lacquering, in my experience, very old weapons collections often seem to have swords etc. painted over with lacquer, as a preservative. I have seen many extremely old swords covered in yellowed lacquer as they were auctioned from very old estate sales.
Whether horn or wood, I would defer to Louis Pierre or Ward, but it is my impression these hilts were usually with horn grips.
All the best,
Jim
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