Very Good Syrian Khanjar Magdali Dagger

These daggers (Khanjars) are mostly titled as Syrian, which is correct. However they were produced mainly in two locations: Damascus and Magdal Shams (The tower of the sun), in the Golan Height an area of dispute between Israel and Syria. It is sometimes hard to tell where each khanjar was produced. The endless discussions and disagreement between collectors add to the confusion.  We think that the Khanjars with the cylindrical grip, with or without the swell at the center are made in Magdal Shams. The Khanjar with the flat grip are made in Damascus, all this with many exceptions. Recently we have noticed good copies of these khanjars coming from Jezzine, a small village in South Lebanon known for the extensive production of knives and daggers.

The above define the Khanjar offered here as Magdali. A fine exemplar, complete however smaller than usual. Blade of flat diamond cross section etched with inscription in Arabic at the blade forte. The handle is made of layers and mosaics pieces of horn, bone, mother of pearl and colored inserts in intricate geometrical design. Original engraved brass scabbard with two iron carrying rings at the sides.

Blade 4 ¼ inches (10 ½ cm). Total length 8 1/2 inches (21 cm). Very good condition. Authentic and fine mid 20 C. Magdali Khanjar.