This fine Shamshir sword is from the 18 C. toward the end of the Safavid period (1501-1736). The fine wootz blade bears a gold inlaid cartouche with inscription in Arabic letters and what might be a date. The inscription translation read The servant of the king of trusteeship Abbas. It most probably refers to the legendry Safavid king Abbas (1587-1629) whose name appears on many objects from the period as a mark of high quality. The date may read 1119 or 1195 ( 1707 or 1780 in the Gregorian calendar), but the reference to Abbas suggests it is from the earlier date. Blade length 32 inches. Steel cross guard and grip strap with gold koftgari work and ivory grips. Very good condition. Losses to the gold work on the handle parts. Very important sword.