North African Jambiya (Curved Dagger With Brass Scabbard), Circa 1880–1910

Details

Description

Origin: North Africa — likely Morocco or Algeria
Date / Period: Late 19th – early 20th century (circa 1880–1910)
Materials: … Read more Origin: North Africa — likely Morocco or Algeria
Date / Period: Late 19th – early 20th century (circa 1880–1910)
Materials: Steel blade, carved wood hilt, brass fittings, chased brass scabbard
Dimensions: Overall length 15 in (38 cm); blade length 8 in (20 cm)
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Description & Analysis
A traditional Jambiya-type curved dagger characteristic of the Maghreb region, featuring a single-edged, forward-curved steel blade housed in a richly ornamented brass scabbard with continuous vegetal and arabesque engraving. The handle is made of dark hardwood with a cast brass pommel cap engraved with radiating star motifs.
The scabbard is notable for its deep repoussé and chased foliate decoration—executed by hand and retaining traces of black pitch or oxidation within the recessed areas to enhance contrast. The two suspension rings suggest the dagger was originally worn as part of ceremonial attire. The blade, though showing corrosion and surface oxidation, retains faint traces of decorative engraving near the base, including stylized star forms corresponding to motifs repeated on the pommel.
The overall craftsmanship, with its combination of North African decorative metalwork and functional curvature, places this dagger within the late 19th–early 20th century artisanal tradition of Fez or Tlemcen workshops, known for similar pieces blending Berber, Arab, and Ottoman influences. See less