Ottoman Kard with Repurposed Yataghan Turkish Ribbon Blade

ALEX · 14th December 2015, 11:02 AM

Mahratt, I had similar thoughts (reply #11 above). You are right of course, there were 300,000 Turkmens living in Syria, most near Turkish border.
As we saw, these kards are often attributed to Persia, Turkmenistan or Afghanistan regions, with Turkmen tribal being closest fit. However, having no bolsters, the distinct blade mounting and Ottoman-like decorations, Syrian Turkmen origin is quite plausible. The metal rings and inlays on the handle are also reminiscent of another Syrian "Majdel Shams" hilts and shamshir hilts produced in Syria during Ottoman period.
Good discussion, thanks to all who responded!

14th December 2015, 11:02 AM	#13
ALEX Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 936	Mahratt, I had similar thoughts (reply #11 above). You are right of course, there were 300,000 Turkmens living in Syria, most near Turkish border. As we saw, these kards are often attributed to Persia, Turkmenistan or Afghanistan regions, with Turkmen tribal being closest fit. However, having no bolsters, the distinct blade mounting and Ottoman-like decorations, Syrian Turkmen origin is quite plausible. The metal rings and inlays on the handle are also reminiscent of another Syrian "Majdel Shams" hilts and shamshir hilts produced in Syria during Ottoman period. Good discussion, thanks to all who responded!