OTTOMAN STEEL TABARZIN SADDLE AXE WITH GOLD KOFTGARI DECORATION AND

Ca. AD 1700�1900 The axe with a broad crescent blade of steel, finely decorated in gold koftgari with dense scrolling vine-work enclosing two almond-shaped cartouches to each side, bearing elegant calligraphic inscriptions in Arabic script. The haft is of wood, clad with brass sheet sections and a central grip wrapped in dark leather, terminating in ribbed brass mounts. The back is fitted with a domed brass cap. On each side of the blade, within the almond-shaped cartouches, we see Arabic calligraphy in a fine thuluth / naskh-style script. From the images provided: First side (teardrop cartouche): The inscription appears to read: ___ __ ____ (Nasr min Allah) "Victory from God". A common Qur�anic invocation, often used on Ottoman arms. Opposite side (round/almond cartouche): The inscription appears to read: _____ ___ (Al-Mulk Lillah): "The Kingdom belongs to God" or "Sovereignty is God�s." Both inscriptions are typical pious or talismanic phrases found on Ottoman and Indo-Persian weaponry, meant to invoke divine protection and legitimacy. The tabarzin, or saddle axe, was a favored weapon and symbol of authority within the Ottoman Empire and Persianate world. Lavish examples, such as the present piece, decorated in fine gold koftgari, were often carried by cavalry officers or presented as gifts. The inscriptions, likely invocations or names of patrons, enhance its ceremonial quality. Size: 58mm Provenance: Private London collection; US art market, before 2000. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Schätzpreis:€3,587.37

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