Antique 19th century Islamic Ethiopian Somali Gile short Sword Dagger

Antique GILE short sword-dagger from the Afar tribe in Ethiopia, dating back to the 19th century. The massive blade is double-edged and curved, resembling an asymmetrical leaf.

The grip is wrapped with silver wire and adorned with iron rosettes. The pommel is bronze with a cap-like protrusion.

The scabbard is made of hardened rawhide with a fur flap. The bottom is wrapped in silver wire and features a shaped brass chape. The sheath retains its belt with a rectangular white metal buckle.

The Jile, also known as a Gile in the Afar language, Golxad or Toorey in Somali, is a type of short sword – dagger with a long curved blade used by the Somali and Aftar people in Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea. It is unique to the Horn of Africa and is considered the most famous and characteristic of Afar and Somali short sword–dagger.

This type of dagger is similar in form and derived from the Arabian jambiya.

REFERENCES:

1. "A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times" by Stone, G. C. (1934).

2. "Islamic and Native Weapons of Colonial Africa 1800-1960" by Anthony C. Tirri.

MEASUREMENTS:

Overall length with the scabbard: 58 cm (22.83 inches).

Overall length without the scabbard: 52 cm (20.47 inches).

Width of the blade at the widest point: 5.7 cm (2.24 inches).

CONDITION: In very good, untouched condition. Age and use are showing.