Original 19th Century Persian Ram’s Head Hilt Heavily Inlaid Jambiya Dagger with Wootz Steel Blade Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Jambiya, also spelled janbia, janbiya, and jambia (Arabic: جنبية‎ janbīyah), is the Arabic term for dagger, but it is generally used to describe a specific type of dagger with a short curved blade. The term jambiya is used in various Arab countries and India, it is closely associated with the people of Yemen and is prevalent among Muslim men in the Horn of Africa (primarily the Afars of Djibouti).

If you look at original photographs of LAWRENCE OF ARABIA in his traditional Arab robes, this is exactly the type of ARAB Dagger Captain T.E. Lawrence carried in his waist band. This is the Classic Arab Dagger of the Sinai and great deserts of the Middle East that stretch all the way down to Yemen and the Oman on the Indian Ocean.

This example is just terrific, fitted with a double edged “WOOTZ” Damascus blade and decorated with Gold and silver inlays overall. Some areas show Arabic script, which could be translated, making this a nice research opportunity. This Jambiya has and all iron pommel, with a ram’s head with very curved horns to the pommel. Measures 16 1/2 inches overall with an 11 1/2 inch long curved blade. Sadly it no longer has its scabbard, which we expect was probably equally magnificent. The blade is a bit longer than we usually see, and also is thicker at the tip, which enhances its ability to penetrate armor.

There is some old rust showing at the base of the blade under the cross guard, but otherwise it is in great shape, with some light wear to the inlays. This is a most attractive weapon and is ready to display!