VERY RARE CAUCASIAN SHORT SWORD

18th-early 19th century. 17 ¾” sharply curved broad fullered single-edged blade inset with engraved brass bands at the forte and inlaid with brass scrolling foliage. The fullers are outlined in inlaid brass and the back with intricate brass inlaid transverse bars full length and continuing to the exposed tang edge. Two-piece cow horn scale grips with bird head pommel. The base with sheet silver encasement on each side and an engraved silver floral, wheel of life, and crescent inlays alternating with silver niello bosses as found on kindjal hilts. The delicate inlays are complete but for a 1” segment of the line above the fuller. The blade with lamination is evident and has very minor staining. Form otherwise unknown to us and outstanding for its intricate workmanship.