An interesting .... what is it?

[DaveA]

Thanks GP.

I was thinking Caucasian, perhaps near the border with Turkey. The bone material somewhat matches a bone hilt in a Georgian kindjal from that area in my collection. The decorative red and black floral is what is throwing me off that track.I have not seen it before.

Dave A.

[gp]

Originally Posted by DaveA

Thanks GP.

I was thinking Caucasian, perhaps near the border with Turkey. The bone material somewhat matches a bone hilt in a Georgian kindjal from that area in my collection. The decorative red and black floral is what is throwing me off that track.I have not seen it before.

Dave A.

Hi Dave,

the red ist often used in Ottoman influenced regions; carnelian or also called cornelian
Less expensive than coral ( which is often used for the more expensive ones) and also easier to use when a smaller size is required and still keep the good look.
Have a look at these examples:
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showpo...0&postcount=12

The black could be used specially to create a more or better visual contrast against the white background of the bone; also oftern seen in calligraphic decorations of drawings at that time in Islamic regions.
It is very soft, yet pronounced present which does make it look good looking, elegant I dare say

best regards

Gunar

[DaveA]

On close inspection, The red dots are indeed crystals set into holes in the bone. The black lines are very delicate. I don't feel any surface texture difference to the lines, but they are in very good condition, unlike the blade and other accoutrements. Thanks for the lead.

Dave