19th C. Ottoman Turkish Qama or Kindjal Dagger

This is an interesting example of what is likely a Balkan origin Ottoman kindjal. The overall form of the dagger, or short sword, is of a kindjal, while the brass crossguard indicates that it's origin is likely from the southern Balkan, possibly even Bulgarian region which had idiosyncratic forms of kindjals and qama short sword and daggers.

The tubular form bone grip is of fine design, finer than is normal found on daggers of this origin, and inlaid with brass nails which form interesting designs including a heart with an arrow through it and a bird.

The blade is of powerful form, multi fullered, with silver koftgari decoration at the base and dated Hijri 1298 or the Gregorian calendar 1881.

Overall length is 24.