A RARE MAMLUK KNIFE WITH RICHLY DECORATED SCABBARD

Blade of finely watered steel decorated with three embedded coral beads and the inscription "The time of the reign of Sultan Malik Zahir"; on the reverse "Fly high, bird of distress and revenge, your rigor and fairness affirm human fate". Square tapered handle of blue glass. Ivory scabbard is richly inlaid with mother of pearl, brass and stones, representing the heavens, with gilt silver fittings with garnets and turquoise.