Kurdistani Kindjal Split-Blade Dagger

An antique kindjal dagger, probably from the Ottoman dominated area of Kurdistan as indicated by the style of hilt. The overall length is about 43cm and the blade length is about 30cm. Islamic cartouche is in good condition on the ricasso. The buffalo horn handle is attached with two large floral design rivets. The blade is wootz steel with a wonderful pattern. The bifurcated blade is said to be an interpretation of Dhu al Fagar, the Sword of the Prophet Muhammad, but is more closely associated with the Muslim hero, Ali. The serrated blade is also typical of blades with bifurcated tips. The style has become a symbol of Sh’ia Islam.

Source: atkinson-swords.com/collection-by-region/middle-east/turkey-and-ottoman/split-kindjal-dagger-kurdis.html