marius:
The only way an old knife like this could have survived in its present condition is for it to have been handled very seldom and basically kept in a cabinet or drawer. That it came from an old collection, and probably not worn during that time, would explain why it has remained so pristine. It is a very high quality knife. Congratulations if you happen to own it.
There are similar knives with koftgari work (rather than inlaid) still being made. I'm not sure if walrus ivory is still available for use on such modern examples.
Ian.
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