Atkinson Swords

Code:  EA1

This is a kindjal (kinzhal) short sword from the Caucasus region (possibly Dagestan), dating from 19th century.  The blade measures 16 1/2 inches long by 1 3/8 inches wide, surviving nicely with few stains.  The hilt, made of the traditional horn, is riveted and remains tight. The shape and size of a kindjal closely resembles the ancient Roman gladius, but a link to this venerable sword of yore has not been established.

The Caucasus is a region in Eurasia bordered on the north by Russia, on the southwest by the Black Sea, on the east by the Caspian Sea and on the south by Iran.  Today, it is a culturally diverse region that includes the states of Armenia and Azerbaijan, and parts of Russia.  Notable among the Russian areas is Dagestan (“Land of Mountains”), a historically important center for fine arms in pre-Islamic times. 

The favorite weapon of the Caucasus region, almost universally carried, is the kindjal. A Djigit (a man, warrior) had to wear a kindjal and know how to use it.  It is one of the traditional blades of the Cossacks. The blades, made by metal-smiths in Amuzgi and Kharbuk, were sent to craftsmen of Kubachi for mounting and finishing.  Most surviving kindjals date from the first half of the 19th century, many being made for Russian clients.  The plain form of the kindjal is nearly identical to the more richly decorated qama, of Georgia, which remains a point of contention to this day as the Georgians feel they are the rightful originators and bearers of this style of sword.

The kindjal has been called, “Decidedly dangerous in the hands of one who knows how to use it, more suitable for attack than for show, giving terrible, often mortal wounds, at once knife, hatchet, cork-screw, paper cutter, accessory of the dance...the kindjal is the offensive and defensive weapon par excellence of the Caucasus.”

It is said that when the owner of a kindjal wishes to show the steadiness of his hand he holds the points of two of these knives against his neck...and then performs exceedingly acrobatic dance, including somersaults, keeping the points of the knives against his neck without cutting the skin.

Read more about the Qama / Kindjal.