Splendour: The Philippe Missillier Collection of Islamic & Indian Arms and Armour

An Ottoman Walrus Ivory Dagger, Turkey, dated 1204 AH/1789 AD

Restricted Species

Auction Closed

April 29, 12:32 PM GMT

Estimate

15,000 - 25,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

the curved double-edged blade with two fullers, central ridge and reinforced tip, the base of the blade inlaid with a gold cintamani motif between three thin carved channels, the base of the blade additionally overlaid with gold square cartouches containing the benedictions ‘O Noble One’ (ya karim), ‘O Loyal One’ (ya wafa), ‘O Truthful One’ (ya haqqi) and the date ‘1204’, the carved walrus ivory hilt of typical ‘capital-I’ shape with a broader band at the centre, the pommel, band, and base carved with a simple vegetal motif, the pommel with space for a now-lost pommel-cap, walrus ivory scabbard with plain silver-gilt mounts, the chape ending in a typical moulded shell motif, suspension ring lost

33.5cm.

This lot contains walrus ivory, which is an endangered species. Sotheby’s recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid, as lots containing endangered species may be subject to import restrictions in certain countries or necessitate licenses and certificates for export from some and import into others. The possession of an export license or certificate does not guarantee obtaining its counterpart elsewhere. Buyers must ascertain and adhere to all applicable regulatory requirements regarding the import and export of such items before bidding, securing all necessary licenses and certificates at their expense. The inability to export or import these items, or their seizure by a government agency, does not justify delaying payment or cancelling a sale.

Philippe Missillier Collection no.164C

David A. Sulzberger, Islamic Military Heritage: Nine Centuries of Islamic Arms and Armour, Riyadh, 1991, p.31, no.143