Lot Nr.390

A Polish karabela

2nd half of the 17th century
Slightly curved, single-edged blade with a broad, double-edged point, presumably Mameluke from circa 1500. Both sides of the blade have triple fullers running to the point with three openwork guide rails for (lost in the interim) balls. Vestiges of gold inlay at the base of the blade, with a lion cut on the obverse side and cartouches with inscriptions in Kufic script on both sides. Near the back on both sides are four recesses for (now missing) decorative stones. Brass quillons in ornamental relief and carved wooden grip scales. Blade somewhat pitted, small crack close to the back with a few traces of brass solder. Total length 99 cm. Length of the blade 85.5 cm.
The overlong blade, the very slight curvature, and the script type suggest the Mameluke dating.
Cf. Islamic Swords and Swordsmiths, Istanbul 2001.

Condition: II-

Limit: 4000 EURO

16000 EURO