Calligraphy handled (choora?) dagger

[ariel]

Originally Posted by kronckew

Really short stub tangs, like those in stone, glass, or crystal knives are not meant for actual combat. (Unless maybe the stub is braised in place in this metal grip?)

I think you might be right: peshkabz tangs are as a rule shifted toward the spine of the blade. But the only component of the that might be inserted into is one of the square " diamonds". Even that is impossible: the " diamond" touches the base of the blade by its acute angle.

We are left with the possibility that the joint between the two parts of this dagger took the idea from N. Indian katars: some kind of braising ( but we do not see any trace of brass or silver ) or having a split outcropping of the handle, inserting the base of the blade into the created gap and forging them together. If that was the case, the connection is likely to be strong and practical.
But the handle itself is awfully awkward for a good grip. Again: not a comfortable weapon, but a beautiful one.

The chamfered edge of the blade was immensely popular on Afghani Ch'hurras and " khybers". NW India and Afghanistan are both likely possibilities.