A HAWKBILL PRUNING KNIFE WITH GOLD INLAY AND BANDED AGATE HA...

Estimate

£600 - £800

A HAWKBILL PRUNING KNIFE WITH GOLD INLAY AND BANDED AGATE HANDLE, GHAZNAVID OR SELJUK, EASTERN PERSIA, 11TH - 12TH CENTURY

This antique fixed-blade pruning knife features a hawkbill-style steel blade. The blade is decorated with gold-colored metal inlay identified as arabic script. The inscription is present on both sides of the blade, accompanied by circular decorative motifs. The handle is constructed from a single piece of faceted, translucent banded agate (added later), exhibiting natural internal banding in shades of pink, white, and cream. The blade is secured to the handle with a single gold-toned pin.

L: 13.5cm