Important Collection of Antique Asian Arms
Lot 31:
A classic form of Horn of Africa dagger called a gile, similar in form and derivedfrom the Arabian peninsular jambiya, the gile can be found in Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, andSomalia, where is known by a variety of different terms including qolxad in Somali and jile inthe Afar language.Most closely associated with the Afar or Danakil people, the gile is primarily considered adagger with a distinctive pommel ending in a cap-like protrusion often of bronze, zinc or silver.The double-edged blade is shaped like an asymmetrical leaf with a distinctive flare at the sharpcurve of the blade. The blades were most often made from salvaged metal, usually iron or steelfrom vehicle springs, though older examples would have forged trade blades. The sheaths weremade of hardened leather or leather wrapped wood and in some cases would be decorated, suchas this example. The sheath usually has a prolonged metal tip, sometimes embellished with metaldecoration of varying quality with an enlarged knob on the end.The sheath is worn on a belt around the waist and attached to the belt with a circular or squarebuckle or more rarely sewn on. As with other daggers in this region, the dagger’s handle oftenindicates the social status of the person who wears it.This example is of classic form. The handle of middling quality, with a brass pommel protrusion.The double edged blade in fine condition but likely of leaf stock or scrap metal construction.The scabbard is hardened leather with an embossed brass decorated chape.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 25" Blade Length : 15"References:1. Stone, G. C. (1934). A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms andArmor in All Countries and in All Times. Mineola NY: Dover Publications.2. Spring, Christopher (1993). African arms and armour. British Museum Press.Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at [email protected]
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