Yataghan (sword)
Date1874
Mediumsteel, silver false-damascening, copper with traces of gilding, coral and walrus ivory
Dimensions67.3 cm (26 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsStamped with comma-shapped maker's mark filled with Arabic script; see digital file for photos and reading.
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.387.1
DescriptionStrongly recurving blade with fuller on both sides. Obverse of blade has silver koft-gari vines and star next to fuller (or these could be niello). Reverse side has extensive inscription in Arabic script and date 1291 (?) (Islamic calendar) running along fuller. Grip of walrus ivory with large bulbous "ears" (outer one cracked). Copper sheathing gilded and chased in geometric patterns & inlaid with pieces of pink coral; this is on throat of grip, and extending onto the back of blade.ProvenanceBurghard Steiner (Riverdale-on-Hudson, NY) purchased by John W. Higgins on January 26, 1927 from sale at Walpole Galleries (NY), their # 91. Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on viewdated 1805-1806, blade probably 1700s