Important Collection of Antique Asian Arms
Lot 79:
A fine representation of one of the most well-known forms of Islamic and Ottoman arms, this is a sword called in collector circles a kilij, or kilich, referring to the Turkish word for Sword. This is commonly used to refer to a sword with a deeply curved saber blade with a widened false edge, called a yelman such as this example. The blades of these swords vary considerably in quality and which are directly correlated with the valuations. These variations are based on the quality of the iron and whether blades are wootz steel or plain iron and the quality of any inscriptions or decoration work.Examples of these swords are found in institutional collections but always of differing levels of quality and condition. This example in the Schmiedt Collection with a blade of classic kilij displaying the longstanding Mamluk influences in Ottoman Turkish arms likely dating to the mid-19th century. This blade appears to be made of wootz, which is uncommon for these kinds of swords, and also has a gold inlaid inscription at the forte of the blade, in addition to an inscription along the fuller. The handle mounted with a gilt brass crossguard of typical form with stylized lotus bud quillons and a pistol form grip.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 30 3/4" Blade Length : 25 3/4"References:1. Al-Biruni (1989). KitÄÂb al-jamÄÂhir fÄ« maÊ»rifat al-jawÄÂhir (The book Most Comprehensivein Knowledge on Precious Stones) Farlang: Islamabad.2. Civita, F. (2014). Islam: armi e armature dalla collezione di Frederick Stibbert. Centrodi della Edifimi. Firenze3. Elgood, R. (2009). The Arms of Greece. Thames and Hudson.4. Hales, R. (2013). A Lifetime’s Passion: Islamic and Oriental Arms and Armour.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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