Dagger - Yemen - 1950-1980

Traditional Arab Dagger (Jambiya)

This authentic traditional set consists of a Jambiya dagger (specific to the Arabian Peninsula, especially the Yemen region), accompanied by its original leather sheath and a wide, hand-embroidered ceremonial belt. The set most likely dates from the second half of the 20th century and represents a piece of ethnic craftsmanship worn as a symbol of social status, honor and masculinity.

2. The Dagger (Blade and Handle)

Blade: Made of steel, it has two cutting edges and a pronounced curvature towards the tip. The distinctive central element is the prominent median rib, which has the structural role of stiffening the blade. The surface of the steel retains fine longitudinal traces of sharpening and patina of natural historical wear.

Handle: Hand-carved in the classic hourglass (or letter "I") shape from dark hardwood. The wood has acquired a special luster due to periodic use.

Handle Decorations: The main face is meticulously decorated by directly hammering into the wood decorative metal plates (low-quality brass/silver) in the shape of a drop (mushammas). These are complemented by tiny metal targets and filigree forming geometric motifs (diamonds and dotted lines). The band at the base of the handle features fine repetitive engravings. The rear of the handle features a historical structural repair made in the narrow central area with a dark-colored reinforcing material and a fixing rivet.

3. Scabbard (Asal)

Construction: Made from a solid wood core, hand-carved to the exact shape of the curved blade.

Exterior and Interior: The wood is covered on the outside in natural brown leather, decorated by pressing with discreet geometric lines and motifs. The mouth of the scabbard is reinforced and lined on the inside with colored textile edges (green and brown threads), which serve to firmly fix the dagger and prevent accidental slipping. The overall shape preserves the specific curvature of Yemeni utilitarian and ceremonial scabbards.

4. Ceremonial Belt (Thub / Zari)

Materials: The base of the belt is made of a stiff textile material, covered on the front with a dense black velvet. The end closure is equipped with a simple metal buckle and brown leather inserts sewn at the joints.

Embroidery: Hand-made in the traditional embossed technique, using rigid, twisted metal threads in gold and silver. The design includes complex wavy motifs that frame small accents of colored textile threads in shades of blue, red and orange. The state of preservation of the embroidery is excellent, with no broken threads