This Kard knife is early Persian, most probably late 17 or early 18 C, Safavid period (1501-1736). Heavy blade with thickened tip forged from fine, high contrast wootz (Damascus, watered) steel. Blade 8 1/2 inches long. Whole steel hollow handle with very fine chiseled decoration. The space inside the handle has several compartments for miniature tools, including scissors, tweezers, miniature files and saw etc. (few tools are missing). Later, 19C. leather covered scabbard. Total length 13 1/5 inches. Very good condition with minor blackened spots on the blade and the handle. Unusual item. The simple lines of decoration suggests the early period for this kard.