The Kilij is the traditional saber of the Ottomans. It was in use from the early 17 C. and during more than 300 years well into the 20th C. The shorter version with deeply curved wide blade and ‘T’ spine is a later version and appeared in the mid 18 Century. The piece offered here for sale has a blade of 26 inches, well curved and forged from laminated steel. It was decorated with silver koftgari work which is now mostly gone. The hilt of classical form is made of brass cross guard and horn grips with bulbous pommel and brass grip strap. The wood scabbard is leather covered and mounted with big beautifully engraved brass locket and chape. Total length 33 inches. Good condition. The blade has few lightly pitted and stained spots. The grips pommel has a crack on one side. The leather cover is recent. Altogether an impressive sword.