A fine Ottoman horn-hilted sword (shamshir) with scabbard and an ivory-hilted coral-inlaid yataghan, Turkey, circa 18th century and early 19th century

the shamshir with gently curved watered-steel blade with flat edge and double-sided point, with gold overlay inscriptions running along one side in a lobed roundel and three cartouches, the horn hilt with bud quillons and incised floral design, repair to backstrap, the fine leather scabbard with silver-gilt lock and chape and two suspension rings, each featuring engraved floral motifs, with old collection label

the yataghan with slightly curved fullered steel blade with flat back edge, one side with a gilt and silver inscription in an etched cartouche, decorated at the forte and tang with abstract overlay motifs and mounted with two deep red paste stones, the marine ivory hilt of characteristic form with corals set in the tang

The shamshir in overall good condition, the inscription on the blade is rubbed, the pommel with empty drill hole and with replacement backstrap and later cross-guard, some ware to scabbard, which is early and probably of the same date as the blade, with some oxidisation to gilt mounts consistent with age and use, as viewed. The yataghan in generally fairly good condition, oxidisation to blade, some cracks in marine ivory grips, including some drill holes due to missing pins, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The inscriptions on the shamshir include the basmalah, invocations to God (ya fattah 'O The Opener of [gates]!' and ya ddayyan [sic] 'O the ever-requiting one!') and Qur'an, chapter LXI (al-Saff) part of verse 13, ending with invocations to God and [the Prophet] Muhammad.

The yataghan was inscribed with: sahibi daim muzaffer eyle olsun alişan ('May its owner be always victorious and elevated') and below, possibly: 'amel-i mehmed... ('Work of Mehmed...').