Featured in this lot is this Persian-Qajar Jambiya dagger circa early 20th century. In general, the Jambiya has a short, broad, double-edged, curved blade that progressively tapers to the tip, as well as a prominent midrib running along its length. The hilt is usually baluster, I, or T shaped. While this old weapon may have contributed to the evolution of the Jambiya, Stephen Gracie, an Australian collector who has the largest collection of Jambiyas outside of Yemen, feels that external forces affected the genesis of the weapon as we know it today. He believes that the curved, double-edged blade was introduced to the region during the Ottoman Turkish conquest and occupation of Yemen (1538-1630), as well as through trade with Iran and India. The knife shows a professionally crafted steel construction with a simple bidri design throughout the sheath, handle and and heel of the blade. On the handle are three raised metal rivets while the bottom of the sheath features two loop rings for securing the blade on clothing or garments. The interior of the sheath is constructed of wood and features a steel covering. The knife shows good condition overall with some wear present from its age and use over the years but no signs of major damage is noted. The blade measures 5 3/4" L x 1 3/16" W, while the handle measures 4 5/8" L x 1 9/16" W. The entire Jambiya dagger measures 10 7/8" L x 1 11/16" W x 3/4" D and weighs aprroximately 6 ounces.