Wootz Jambiya Albanian?
Another recent auction buy.
Catalogue Description:
9 ¾ inch slightly curved, double edged Damascus blade with central rib. Carved one piece horn grip with silvered filigree and stone set rivet heads. Contained in its silvered covered scabbard with floral engraving. Wire bound chape and throat.
My Stats:
Weight 1lb 1oz (0.49kg) in scabbard, 9.9oz (0.28kg) bare blade
Length overall: 15.5'' (39.5cm) Blade: 9.75'' (25cm)
Profile taper: 1.94'' (49.3mm) at ricasso , 1.31'' (33.2mm)at mid blade, 0.85'' (20.4mm) 2'' from tip.
Distal taper 0.18'' (4.5mm) at ricasso, 0.21'' (5.5mm)at mid blade,. 0.17'' (4.4mm) 2'' from tip.
No etchings or stamps but the blade seems to be wootz and there is a strange triangular demarcation area on both sides near the hilt. Is this the sign of a possible welded tang? People with more knowledge of metallurgy may be able to help me here. The scabbard appears to be silver with what could be a makers signature. Any translations welcome.
Is the Albanian attribution accurate? Any ideas as to the possible date. Feels to be a well constructed piece and the blade is very nicely patinated. I applied a light etch of dilute ferric chloride to bring out the pattern. As always all comments and opinions welcome.
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