Sword (Kilij) with Scabbard

19th century

Not on view

The inscriptions on the sword invoke Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and ‘Ali. The stones adorning the hilt and scabbard of the sword have talismanic significance. According to scholar Al-Biruni’s eleventh-century manuscript Kitab al- Jamahir (Book of Precious Stones), coral was believed to prevent misfortune and turquoise to avert the evil eye.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Sword (Kilij) with Scabbard
Date: 19th century
Culture: Turkish
Medium: Steel, wood, turquoise, coral, emerald, gold
Dimensions: L. 35 1/2 in. (90.2 cm)
Classification: Swords
Credit Line: The Collection of Giovanni P. Morosini, presented by his daughter Giulia, 1932
Object Number: 32.75.300a, b
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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