#kilij

If you are interested in Middle Eastern weapons and armor, give @baytalasad a follow. They teach at seminars across the states, and currently work with the Worcester Art Museum in MA, where they do educational, demonstrations of Middle East arms and armor.

The kilij was a saber from the Ottoman Empire, similar to the shamshir I’ve previously featured and first appearing in the mid-15th century. The blade features a characteristic swell at the end, called a “Yalman,” which was double edged and aided in cutting. Because it lacked the shamshir’s extreme curve, the killij also had an advantage in that it was a more effective thrusting weapon, though that was not the purpose it was designed for.

Fine presentation kilij from the late 18th or early 19th century. The blade is 29 inches of gold-inlay steel. The hilt is gilded copper chased in a floral design. The scabbard is wood covered in red fabric fitted with with gilded copper chape and locket matching the hilt. Total length of 32 inches.

Truly a dream sword and the crown jewel of any collection.

Ottoman Empire, 17th century, from MK Antiques.

A rare early example of a Kilij, Ottoman Turkish, 15th century, from M.K. Antiques.