Lew Waldman's Ethnographic Arms & Armour Collection Archive


1123 - Long Double Edged Dagger with Decorated Hilt and Scabbard

Lew did not leave behind his attribution for this long straight dagger or short sword. Based upon the form, condition and the well executed decoration, this may be from Algeria or a touristic / ceremonial version of the Moroccan janwi. The double edged blade has a flattened diamond cross section and tapers to a very acute point beyond a short ricasso. The blade measures just over 13¼ inches (34 cm) with a brightly ground blade with slight discolorations. A well patinated iron crossguard with opposite turns at either end begins the transition into a dark wood and bone hilt. On the display face are inlaid white metal spirals and wires, with just wires on the back surface. The dagger's length is 18¾ (47.8 cm) with a weight of 9 ounces (256 grams). The two halves of the wooden sheath are bound together by copper bands. The display face is decorated with numerous inlaid spirals of white metal and straight and wavy wire, some wound less tightly than others. Overall length within the scabbard is 20 inches (50.8 cm) with a weight of 12 ounces (346 grams).


Long Double Edged Dagger with Decorated Hilt and Scabbard

Long Double Edged Dagger with Decorated Hilt and Scabbard

Long Double Edged Dagger with Decorated Hilt and Scabbard

Long Double Edged Dagger with Decorated Hilt and Scabbard



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