Аукцион Bidspirit | Rare Royal Iraqi Jambiya Dagger

Rare Royal Iraqi Jambiya Dagger – Elite Silver Hallmarked Goldsmithing Sheath with Gilt and Niello Decoration -  A magnificent Iraqi Jambiya dagger, circa mid-20th century. Daggers of this level of finish were made by meticulous hand as luxury ceremonial presentation pieces intended for formal gift-giving or for the display of high social and economic standing among the elite of Baghdad and southern Iraq. The dagger is constructed according to the finest military and ceremonial tradition — the sheath and hilt are based on a solid, quality wooden core that lends the piece its structural strength, balanced weight, and perfect protection for the blade. The sheath consists of a central wooden core entirely enveloped in an outer casing of solid silver. At the tip of the sheath and on its reverse sections are struck the marks of Iraqi government assay offices, officially certifying the purity of the silver (800 silver) and attesting to the object's geographic authenticity. The silver casing is decorated in the technique of metallic black enamel (سواد — Niello), inlaid within deep engraved recesses. This craft is closely identified with the renowned Mandaean silversmiths of southern Mesopotamia. The decoration presents, in vivid and rich fashion, folkloric symbols and local architectural structures. At the center of the silver stands an applied gilt relief depicting a date palm — the emblem and symbol of blessing of the Mesopotamian region — alongside gilt panels distributed along the entire length of the sheath's face. The original steel blade is double-edged and curved, with a raised central rib characteristic of quality traditional weapons. The blade seats perfectly and securely within the wooden core of the sheath and bears a light antique patina attesting to its authenticity. Length: 41 cm. Total weight (gross): 518 g. In very good preservation; the silver is clean with a rich luster; the gilt elements are crisp and distinct; all niello sections are intact without structural flaws. Light age patina.