101 - A CAUCASUS, DAGESTAN, SILVER-MOUNTED KINDJAL DAGGER WITH NIELLO DECORATION, 19TH CENTURY

A CAUCASUS, DAGESTAN, SILVER-MOUNTED KINDJAL DAGGER WITH NIELLO DECORATION, 19TH CENTURY A finely worked Caucasian kindjal dagger, attributable to Dagestan, dating to the 19th century, of characteristic straight double-edged form, the broad tapering blade forged with a pronounced medial ridge and shallow fullers, the surface showing signs of hand finishing and age with visible forging striations and scattered oxidation consistent with early manufacture. The blade of typical Caucasian construction, robust and utilitarian, is designed for both cutting and thrusting. The hilt of traditional waisted form, entirely clad in silver and richly ornamented with niello inlay, composed of dense scrolling vegetal arabesques arranged within cartouche panels, bordered by finely executed beaded wirework. The pommel of flattened oval form with a raised central boss, similarly decorated with floral motifs against a niello ground. The scabbard of wood, fully encased in silver and elaborately decorated en suite with the hilt, features elongated cartouches filled with intricate nielloed foliate scrolls, separated by beadwork borders and geometric framing elements. The lower section terminating in a distinctive conical chape with tightly executed diagonal patterning and a rounded terminal knop. The throat is fitted with a suspension loop and retaining traces of the original leather hanger. The reverse of the scabbard is notably more subdued, with vestiges of niello decoration now partially worn, revealing the underlying silver surface and evidencing prolonged use and age. Dimensions: L: 18 1/2 in., (47 cm.) Condition: The blade showing age appropriate wear, including surface oxidation, light pitting, and visible forging marks, with no major structural damage. The silver mounts are generally well preserved with areas of niello loss and rubbing, particularly on the reverse of the scabbard and high points of the hilt. Minor dents and surface irregularities consistent with use. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All statements contained in the catalog, condition reports, invoices, advertisements, or elsewhere concerning the authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, period, culture, source, provenance, authenticity, genuineness, condition, rarity, importance, or value of any lot are statements of opinion only and shall not be construed as representations, warranties, or statements of fact. All lots are sold "as-is", refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions does not offer in-house shipping. We will provide a list of recommended shippers upon request.