Large Ottoman Khanjar Dagger from the Balkan Region

Ottoman Khanjar daggers are found all over the region but especially in the Balkan on the western borders of the empire and further east to the borders with Persia. All have some similarities but differs in size, shape, materials and decorations.

The Khanjar offered here is of larger dimensions than usual. Huge 25 inches long. Rather a short sword. It is shown in a photo below next to a more common size khanjar, 16 1/2 inches long. Curved and double edge d blade with a central rib, forged from watered steel (Wootz) and decorated with gold koftgari work. Large size silver gilded handle and silver gilded and chased scabbard mounts. The inscription on the locket is: “Hana Rah Ziz” may be a Turkish name.

Blade 15 inches. Total length 25 inches. Very good condition. Very minor dents on the silver.

The large “I” shaped handle with the extended tips on the pommel and the cross guard are sometimes identified as of Albanian origin. May be. But definitely from the Balkan region of the Ottoman empire. An impressive authentic 19 C. artifact.