Description
Silver Niello Marsh Arab Janbiya Dagger
Iraqi silver niello Marsh Arab Janbiya dagger complete with sheath.
Carries marks to the tip of the sheath and thought to be early to mid 20th century.
Some light marks here and there but no damage to the silver nor to the niello work.
Overall length when in its sheath is 12 3/4 inches, total weight is 219g
REF: 423Y
A janbiya dagger, also known as a jamb, jambiya’, jambya, jambia, janbia and janbīyah, is an Arabic term for a specific type of dagger with a short, curved blade. It also has a medial ridge that is thought to have originated from Yemen. These daggers are most closely associated with the peoples of Yemen, Najran and Saudi Arabia. They are typically worn as an accessory by males above the age of 14. The janbiya is often referred to in Oman as a khanjar or xencer in the Kurdistan region.
These daggers were transported by travellers to other cultures including the Ottoman Empire, Persia and India. Here they were adopted with slight differences to the blade, hilt and scabbard.
The double edged blade of the janbiya is normally constructed from steel but can also be made from silver for more ceremonial items. The blade is stored in a sheath known as an Asib.
