Ottoman Pala Saber: 18th Century Islamic Inlaid Blade, Wooden Scabbard

"Origin: Ottoman Empire.A nice example of Ottoman pala saber with gold inlaid blade. Dating to 18th-19th century. Length - 81,8 cm. In the late 18th century, though shamshirs continued to be used, the kilij underwent an evolution: the blade was shortened, became much more acutely curved, and was wider with an even deeper yelmen. In addition to the flared tip, these blades have a distinct "T-shaped" cross section to the back of the blade. This allowed greater blade stiffness without an increase in weight. Because of the shape of the tip of the blade and the nature of its curvature the pala (kilij) could be used to perform the thrust, in this it had an advantage over the shamshir whose extreme curvature did not allow the thrust. Usually palaare called shorter kilij sabers.Blade: a curved single edged blade with back of “T-shaped” cross section, with two narrow fullers and long pronounced yelmen. Golden Islamic inlays on both sides of the blade. Length of the blade 68,4 cm, width - 4,2 cm, thickness - 7,5 mm.Hilt: long gilt brass crossguard with quillons. Crossguard is faceted, of octagonal cross section and drop-shaped ends, decorated with floral motifs and geometric ornaments. Two grip plates of brown horn with a hole in the round pommel. Brass type covering the gap between grip plates. Two steel rivets fixing the grip to the blade tang. Dimensions of the crossguard 36 inches over length 2 inches wide Scabbard is included