The decorative style of this late 18th or early 19th Century silver mounted saif indicates that it was made in Hyderabad, India. Robert Elgood in his book "Arms and Armour of Arabia" (1994) states that while these swords were used in Southern Yemen, many of them and especially the nicer ones were made in Hyderabad. Swords of this type were carried by members of the Hyderabadi royal family as well as Yemeni Sultans.
A pair, probably gifted to King George III are displayed in the ballroom of the British Royal Families Sandringham House. The Metropolitan Museum in New York also has an example and three more Hyderabad saif are illustrated in: Robert Hales book “Islamic and Oriental Arms and Armour, a Lifetime Passion.” Robert Hales Ltd. 2013. Page 245.
The 750mm single-edged blade has a wide, shallow fuller below a narrow fuller. The wide fuller runs almost to the hatchet point. The broad blade is double-edged for the final 215mm and retains sharp edges.
The forte of the blade is etched with a row of X’s on both sides. The blade is in very good condition and retains its original polish with minimal tarnish and some shallow pitting towards the point.
The silver hilt is ornately decorated with applied silver wire and floral motifs. The pommel is suggestive of the dome and minarets of a mosque. The hilt is in great condition and the blade is fixed firmly in the traditional manner.
The sword is complete with its silver mounted scabbard. The wooden scabbard has had the leather replaced at some point. A job well done. The silver locket and chape of the scabbard are ornately decorated with applied silver wire and floral motifs. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a great example of a scarce late 18th Century high status saif, made in Hyderabad and popular with members of the Yemeni and Hyderabadi elite.
£2,500.00
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