An enamelled dagger and scabbard, Persia, dated A.H. 121[0]/A.D. 1795

the steel blade with gold-overlaid scrolls to the forte, the enamelled hilt and scabbard decorated en suite with polychrome flowers on a white ground, dated in small cartouche on the scabbard, the head of the hilt set with a hardstone inscribed with a pious phrase

In good overall condition, some small patches of rust and patination to the blade at the forte and tip with associated loss to a small amount of gold overlay at the forte, hilt and scabbard in good condition, enamel colours and gilt bright, 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."

Enamelled hilts of this kind seem to have been made throughout the Near East : examples are known from Turkey, Persia and Syria (an example very similar to the present piece can be found in the Metropolitan Museum, New York (inv.no.32.75.263), and is signed by a master who either worked in, or came from, Damascus). The enamelling and style on this dagger is typically Persian. Because the dagger is dated it provides an important reference point for determining the development of this style.

A similar enamelled dagger was sold in these rooms on April 9, 2008, lot 278.