A FINE OTTOMAN HANCER DAGGER

The grip of characteristic form, carved of a single large section of rhinoceros. The massive, handwrought blade with pronounced central ridge showing evidence of wootz forging, with elaborately-inlaid gold panels at either side of the forte composed of Ottoman vinework and Islamic inscriptions calling upon the hero ‘Ali. In its finely embossed and engraved silver scabbard decorated in Ottoman motifs overall with wooden core and suspension rings intact.First half of the 18th century. Wear to gold. Overall length 54.5cm. Condition II