Large & Broad Khyber
Name/Title
Large & Broad KhyberEntry/Object ID
431; Full Code: 431.45.67-SW-IATags
Stag Horn, SwordDescription
Item Description: Wootz Steel Khyber Knife (Salawar Yatagan) This is a Khyber Knife (locally known as a Salawar Yatagan or Charay), a formidable short sword or large dagger originating from the tribal regions of Afghanistan and the North-West Frontier. This specimen is a high-status piece, featuring a blade forged from Wootz steel and a hilt of camel bone. Blade: The blade is a "T-section" construction, featuring a remarkably thick, flat spine that tapers to a needle-sharp point. This design provides immense structural rigidity, allowing the blade to be both a powerful chopper and a lethal thrusting weapon. Close-up images reveal the subtle, flowing "water" pattern characteristic of Wootz steel, indicating it was forged using traditional crucible methods. Hilt: The handle is comprised of two camel bone scales (slabs) pinned to a full tang with small steel rivets. The bone has aged to a beautiful, creamy-yellow patina. The hilt terminates in a distinctive "beak" or bird-head shape, which provides a secure grip when drawing the blade or delivering a forceful strike. Bolster: A sturdy steel bolster transitions the handle to the blade, acting as a guard to prevent the hand from slipping forward onto the edge.Made/Created
Time Period
19th CenturyPlace
Region
Norht IndiaEthnography
Cultural Region
Region
Central AsiaContinent
AsiaCulture/Tribe
Afghan