Fine and Complete Royal Saidi Khanjar Oman

The Omani Khanjar known as "Saidi" or "Royal" style is the most sought after of all Omani Khanjars and certainly deserves the respect. The tale is that the Persian wife of Sayyid Said bin Sultan was bored with the classical shape of the Omani Khanjars and designed this attractive style as a present to her husband. Hence the "Royal" title. The general "L" shaped scabbard and the twisted wires belt attachment is kept Omani, however the handle and grip, usually silver or rhino horn, are highly decorated with filigree silver panels and inserts.

The exemplar exhibited here has a classical curved and dual edge blade with a strong central rib. The hilt is horn most probably R horn, with all the classical Saidi silver filigree panels including the smallest ones which in many cases are missing. The 7 rings scabbard is set with chased silver cover and mounted with filigree silver locket and chape. The back side is covered with old colored velvet, may be the original one.

This khanjar comes with its original fabric belt attached to the side rings of the Khanjar with chased silver discs.

Blade 7 1/2 inches (19 cm) long. Total length 13 inches (33 cm). Total length of the belt (fully extended) 32 inches (81 cm). Very good condition. Belt fabric lightly worn. Complete, authentic and rare Khanjar. First half of the 20 C.

See also: Jehan S. Rajab, "Silver Jewelry of Oman" Fig 51 Page 45