Yatagan, ca. 1525–30

Made by the Workshop of Ahmed Tekelü

Turkey (Istanbul)

Steel, walrus ivory, gold, silver, rubies, turquoise, pearl

The gold incrustation on the blade depicts a combat between a dragon and a phoenix against a background of foliate scrolls. These figures, like the gold-inlaid cloud bands on the ivory grip, are Chinese in style and were probably introduced into Ottoman art through contacts with Persia.

The extremely high relief of the delicately modeled goldsmith’s work, and the use of rubies for eyes, silver for the dragon’s teeth, and a pearl set into the phoenix’s head, exemplify the opulence and refinement of Ottoman luxury arts.

Source: metmuseum.org

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