Very Early Silver Mounted Daharia (Sabiki سبيكة) Dagger Dated 1271 (1853)

Daharia daggers (also known as Sabiki سبيكة) are common long dagger in the Hijaz, Asir and Jizan regions of western Yemen and South Saudi Arabia. Sizes vary from long daggers to short swords.  The word Daharia is derived from Dhura'eyah - arm long dagger (free translation). The Daharia is worn with a wide leather belt horizontally across the body

The Daharia offered here is very early, mid 19 C. Double edged blade with strong central rib. The handle and the scabbard is entirely covered with chased silver in floral design. Original leather cover on the back face of the scabbard. Avery interesting point: The owner of this dagger bothered to open a small “window” in the leather to show the chased Arabic inscription and date:

يعقوب رجب 1271 (Rajeb Yaakub 1271). Probably the name of the original owner or maker. 1271 in the Islamic calendar refers to 1653 in the Gregorian calendar

lade 12 inches (36 cm). Total length 20 inches (51 cm). Very good condition to age. Blackened spots on the blade.

See also: Thierry Mauger "Flowered Men and Green Slopes of Arabia" pages 94-95 Showing a group of Arab men from Asir in a dancing performance, each carrying a Sabiki dagger and gun.