TIBETAN BELT KNIFE

TIBET, c. 1880–1920

A traditional Tibetan belt knife from the turn of the 19th and 20th century. The handle, made of two yak bone grip scales and decorated with punched dots, is fitted with riveted iron, silver and brass mounts. The upper mount has become slightly loosened over time. The forged steel blade has a fuller on one side and shows some signs of pitting. The typical forward-curved scabbard is silver-plated and chiselled with floral and avian motifs. An aged, possibly original, belt strap is still attached. The knife fits well in its sheath.

• Blade length 9 cm
• Total length sheathed 22 cm
• Weight 150 grams