These type of knifes given as emblems of rank to Mahdist army leaders are cut from flat sheet metal and covered with acid-etched Koranic texts in Thuluth script. This rare knife in excellent condition is modeled after a Fur people (west Sudan) throwing knife. The handle is covered with lizard skin. 1880-1890´s. Two other knifes in the same style are in the collection of Minneapolis Institute of Art and Ethan Rider collection. (Mahdist State/Mahdist Sudan/Sudanese Mahdiyya 1881-1898)

H. 44 cm

Provenance: Swedish collection

Price on request