An Ottoman coral and turquoise-set sword and scabbard, Turkey, 18th/19th century

curved steel blade with flat back edge and swelled tip, gold-overlaid inscriptions in cartouches and roundel near forte, hilt and scabbard set with drop-shaped turquoise beads and smaller, round turquoise beads between inlaid coral decoration arranged in star-form motifs

By repute, purchased from the estate sale of an actor in Hollywood, California, purchased by the current owner's aunt, and gifted to her brother, thence by descent.

In good condition, the blade with only minor scratches, the gold of the inscription bright and in good condition, the scabbard with only minor losses of coral and turquoise, 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."

inscriptions

Only part of inscriptions deciphered: qardab ('sharp sword'), abyad ('white') and mujawhar ('jewelled')

Two cartouches near the hilt: 'O Muhammad!' and 'O ‘Ali!'