Original Item: Only One Available. Janbiya, also spelled janbia, jambiya, and jambia (Arabic: ?????? janbiyah), 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 janbiya 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).
This example dating from between 1850-1900 originates in what we now call Saudi Arabia or Yemen but that area was once part of the Ottoman Empire. This is a classic JAMBYA dagger featuring curved scabbard and waist belt. The 6″ long blade has a high ridge down the center and is 2 1/8″ wide at the hilt, overall length of knife is 11″. Grip is bone with silver inlay. Rear of scabbard covered in red wool. Also included is an original waist belt in decorated canvas with leather closure and buckle. Certainly the knife and scabbard are older than the belt.
This is the Classic Dagger worn by LAWRENCE OF ARABIA in his photographic portraits from the First World War. The silver covered scabbard and dagger hilt is profusely decorated and embossed.