Qama – a kind of dagger popular in Georgia and in other countries of the Caucasus. It is sometimes referred to as Kindjal (especially as a Cossack’s weapon – originating from the Caucasus people). It was so highly-esteemed that the Russian poets, Alexander Pushkin and Mikhail Lermontov, both dedicated celebrated poems to this weapon.

This dagger is one of the most impressive of its kind, especially because of its breathtaking handle and scabbard decoration. The Museum only holds a few items of this kind originating from the Caucasus.

This kind of weapon could also be used for decorative purposes or as a ceremonial object, although, this particular specimen served as a weapon.

The opposite site (which is not shown) of the scabbard’s metal elements (locket and chape) bears the inscriptions: “H.C.” and “84”. “H.C.” are probably the initials of the maker, and “84” are two last numbers of the year when that kindjal was made (1884).

Total length (including scabbard): 42,6 cm

 

Caucasus, 2^nd half of the 19^th century

steel, white metal, silver, leather, wood

hammering

MAP 6499