Caucasian short sword, qama or quaddara. The broad double-edged blade is cut with deep off-set fullers, and struck with the word Imtihan ('tested', or 'proved') within a small cartouche. This weapon has a heavy blade which would be ideal for a chopping or hacking action in use. The hilt is made from black buffalo horn, and is fitted with engraved brass mounts. It is contained within a decorative sword scabbard which is faced with a mosaic comprising various materials. The mosaic is the product of a specialist workshop, and was stuck down onto sheets of paper and would have been sold on to other artisans, such as ornamental box makers, for use. Use of this mosaic on sword scabbards is not common.
fighting
