Caucasian Kindjal Dagger With Silver Niello Decoration, Haji Ali, 1348 Ah

A finely decorated Caucasian kindjal dagger, with a straight, double-edged steel blade and a richly ornamented handle and sheath.

The handle and scabbard are adorned with silver inlays featuring floral motifs created using niello and engraving techniques, in a style characteristic of Dagestanese silversmiths: niello-style floral motifs, gilded relief details, and finely crafted beaded borders. The decoration combines leafy scrollwork, geometric panels, and traditional Caucasian ornamental motifs. The blade features a central fuller and shows signs of oxidation, wear, and marks of use.

The inscription reads as follows: “Work of Haji Ali, year 1348.” The date 1348 AH corresponds to 1929–1930 in the Gregorian calendar. Although the inscription is written in Arabic script, this does not necessarily mean it is of Arabic origin: Arabic script was widely used in the early 20th century in Dagestan and other regions of the North Caucasus. The exact region of manufacture is not confirmed.

Materials:
Steel, silver mountings, niello-style decoration, gilding.

Period:
Early 20th century, dated 1348 AH / 1929–1930.

Dimensions:
Total length: 47.5 cm.
Blade length: 33.5 cm.
Blade width at the base: 3.1 cm.

Weight:
610 g.

Condition:
Age-related wear, patina, scuffs, oxidation, and surface marks. The handle has been restored; the nuts appear to have been replaced. The condition is visible in the photographs.

SKU: 1112.1.1.060726