An Ottoman gem-set jade-hilted dagger and scabbard, dated A.H.991 / A.D.1583, Turkey, 16th century and later

the narrow tapering steel blade chiselled with an openwork design of scrolling split-palmettes decorated with overlaid gold tendrils, the forte with a gem-set palmette, the dark green jade hilt inlaid with gold split-palmettes, floral gem-set pommel, the hilt decorated ensuite with gold strapwork and inscription in relief terminating in a foliate openwork gem-set chape



The inscription on the blade reading:
"The work of 'Ibrat, the year AH 991/1583 AD."



The inscription on the scabbard reading
"Allah, Muhammad, Abu Bakr, 'Umar, 'Uthman, Ali"

in good condition, minor rubbing to overlaid gold on blade, small loss to scabbard, 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."

For a dagger with a similarly inlaid jade hilt, see Hermitage, Kuwait p.30, no.86. The inlay on the hilt is typical of the workmanship of the hakkakin in Ottoman Turkey of the 16th century, for example, the same style of gold inlay can be seen on a jade cup in the Musée du Louvre (MR202). The date on  the blade is contemporary with pierced blades of this type which date from the 16th century; for a discussion on pierced and inscribed blades, see Ivanov, p.71.