Thumah style scabbard with tuza
For your consideration, here is one of my Yemeni jambiya, pre-1920. The thumah style scabbard extends downward without the strong degree of curvature found in the 'aseeb style scabbard. The thumah ends in a traditional silver-ball type decoration called a "kawthara". An exquisite silver plate, called a "tuza", decorates the thumah. On the rear of the thumah is found a small metal piece bearing the name of the creator. This confirms a data of manufacture prior to 1920 when it became forbidden to sign jewelry of any kind in Yemen. This type of jambiya is sometimes referred to as a tuza.
The tuza jambiya was reserved for the religious elite of the country, including those who claimed direct descent from the Prophet Muhammad (BBHN). Imams and those especially learned individuals who served as judges, teachers or administrators for the Imam also wore the thumah. The thumah-scabbard of dignitaries and townsmen of high degree (seyyids and qådis) is often dark, offering high contrast with the ornate silver decoration.
- Dave A.
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