Very Good “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 Khanjar and designed this attaractive 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 7 inches curved and dual edge blade with a central rib. The hilt is rhino horn set with the classical Saidi silver filigree panels. The 7 ringer scabbard is covered with leather and silver plate and mounted with filigree silver locket and chape. Total length is 12 inches. Good condition. Several losses to the silver pieces on the grip and some later repairs. late back leather cover.

See also: Jehan S. Rajab, “Silver Jewellery of Oman” Fig 51 Page 45