Dagger (Jambiya) with Sheath
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Steel, jade, gold, brass, gemstone
Dimensions
H. with sheath 15 1/16 in. (38.3 cm); H. without sheath 13 3/16 in. (33.5 cm); H. of blade 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); W. 2 7/16 in. (6.2 cm); D. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm); Wt. 11.8 oz. (334.5 g); Wt. 4.7 oz. (133.2 g)
Classification
Daggers
Culture
Turkish
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.661a, b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite Jambiya dagger with sheath, hailing from Turkish culture in the 18th–19th century, exemplifies the blend of functionality and opulence in Ottoman-era arms. Crafted from steel for the blade, with a hilt adorned in jade, gold, brass, and gemstones, it measures 15 1/16 inches (38.3 cm) with its sheath—elegant yet formidable. The lavish materials suggest it was more than a weapon; likely a ceremonial piece or symbol of status for elite warriors or officials, showcasing the era's masterful metalworking and gem-setting techniques. In the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Arms and Armor De...