A magnificent Caucasian dagger KAMA, niello and silver, Russian Empire, 1898.

A magnificent Caucasian dagger KAMA, niello and silver, Russian Empire, 1898. This exceptional Caucasian dagger, known as a Kama, represents the refined craftsmanship of the late 19th-century Russian Imperial era, a period when such weapons served as both functional sidearms and prestigious status symbols within the international art and antiques market. The double-edged steel blade features a central fuller and is struck with a master’s mark in Arabic script within a decorative cartouche. The hilt and scabbard are adorned with elaborate silver fittings, meticulously decorated with niello, depicting intricate scrolling foliage and floral motifs characteristic of high-end Caucasian metalwork. The reverse of the scabbard's throat mount is prominently dated "1898" in niello and bears official silver hallmarks, while the leather-wrapped scabbard terminates in a finely worked silver chape with granulated accents. Measuring approximately 62 cm in total length, this piece showcases the sophisticated blend of martial utility and decorative art typical of 19th-century imperial artifacts. The item is in good condition.