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, sometimes also known as Pala, is a later version and appeared in the mid 18 Century. This Pala has a blade of 28 inches, well curved and forged from high carbon steel and decorated with gold koftgari inlay cartouches. The hilt of classical form is made of brass cross guard and rhino horn grips with bulbous pommel and brass grip strap. Total length 33 inches. Very good condition The blade has few blackened spots. The cross guard was riveted to the blade at some later time. No scabbard.