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, sometime known as Pala, is a later version and appeared in the mid 18 Century. This Pala has a wootz (watered steel) blade of 27 inches long with gold inlay Islamic inscriptions on one side and chiseled inscription with gold background on the other side. A later ivory handle and gilded silver cross guard. It is dated on the spine to 1239 (1823 in the Gregorian calendar). Chiseled Palas are much sought-after. A rare and fine item for the advanced collector.