An Arabian saif with gold hilt and mounted scabbard, Arabian Peninsula, 19th/early 20th century

the curved steel blade with flat back edge, hilt of typical shamshir form, worked in gold with applied wire-work and filigree scrolling geometric design, cross-guard with stylised floral motifs and bud-form quillons, fine chain running between hilt and cross-guard, leather-covered wood scabbard mounted with gold metal lock decorated en-suite, the gilt metal chape and suspension loops with chased and engraved floral designs

The steel blade with small marks of pitting, some erosion particularly near cutting edge resulting in discoloration, some minor patches of oxidisation, horizontal scratches, some minor rubbing and dents to extremities of quillons, some ware to scabbard as consistent with age and use, minor dents to mounts on scabbard, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This Arabian saif (curved sword) applied with gold mounts was most probably intended as a presentation gift. A comparable sword is now in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, presented to Lord Athlone in 1928 by Ibn Saud (see Elgood 1994, p.22, no.2.18). A similar sword was sold in these rooms, 6 October 2010, lot 303.