Rare Knife from Sumbawa Island Indonesia

The Sumbawa Island in Indonesia was introduced to the Islam in the 17th C and formed the eastern limit of Islam In Indonesia. It was inspired by Makassarese of south Sulawesi and Malay models of Muslim Sultanates.

This knife is a very rare and unusual example from the 19 C Sultanate Sumbawa. A solid thick single edge blade with a short false edge., with silver inlaid inscriptions in Arabic letters: حسبنا الله ونعم والوكيل, (Allah is all we need. He is the best guardian), a quote from the Koran. And الله محمد (Allah Muhamad) with numbers in magic squares that were common in the Islamic world as a talisman of luck and safety. Inscription on both faces of the blade are identical.  A single piece of rare Hippopotamus tusk grip with chased silver collar. Carved wood scabbard with silver and brass bands.

Blade 9 1/2 inches (24 cm) long.  Total length 16 inches (41 cm). Very good plus condition. A rare 19 C knife.

For a similar knife see: Albert G. Van Zonneveld: "TRADITIONAL WEAPONS OF THE INDONESIAN ARCHIPELAGO" Page 74 fig. 281, 283