Kard but from where

[mariusgmioc]

I got this wootz kard recently. The T-spined blade has about 27 cm (11").
It was advertised as Persian or Bukharan kard.
However, I believe it has some unmistakeable Ottoman features.
So what do you think?!

[Battara]

I’ve seen this sold several years ago. Without a doubt I lean towards Ottoman by the end of the scabbard and the hilt.

Both Persians and Ottomans used walrus ivory and both used scabbards like this.

A really nice piece, congratulations.

[kronckew]

the coiled wire seam on the scabbard as well as the tip scream Turkish.

[Battara]

Good point Kronckew. This scabbard looks very Ottoman to me.

[mahratt]

Hello Marius

I think you're absolutely right. This is not Persia and moreover it is not Bukhara. My opinion is a very good Ottoman kard.
My congratulations

[mariusgmioc]

Thank you guys for your oppinions!

[Battara]

Another question for me: were the turquoise stones originally held in place by gold settings? There seem to be round discoloration on the ivory around the turquoise stones.

[mariusgmioc]

Originally Posted by Battara

Another question for me: were the turquoise stones originally held in place by gold settings? There seem to be round discoloration on the ivory around the turquoise stones.

I don't think there were any gold mountings because:
there are no traces of gold anywhere;
there are no visible grooves where the gold would have been inserted;
gold mountings on hilts are more an Indian trait, not Ottoman.

[Battara]

Well I'll agree that kundun technique is unique to India. But I have seen silver and gold mounts for Ottoman gems (and even for glass look alikes).