The national sword of the Kabyles of Morocco and Algeria. Good early example with early quality. 8 3/4" blade inlaid both sides with inlaid geometrically decorated brass panels and stipple line work. Brass sheathed hilt of iconic form with stylized animal head pommel. Faceted grip with wear from use, decorated in deep relief and continuing as the iron bolster of the blade with matching decoration. Two piece wood scabbard with brass bands (narrow splinter to the bottom seam). The face decorated with geometric incising, evidently lime inlaid originally. Complete and showing good age patina. Surely collected in the 19th century, this example is distinguished by its quality. The condition is indicative of an heirloom example collected in the 19^th century