A Rare Dagger of Cossack Kama, Russian Empire, silver and niello, owner's name Ivan Gagelin, 19th C

A Rare Dagger of Cossack Kama, Russian Empire, silver and niello, owner's name Ivan Gagelin, 19th century. This rare and historically significant 19th-century Cossack kama (kindjal) represents the elite martial tradition of the Russian Imperial era. The weapon features a robust, double-edged steel blade constructed with two deep fullers for optimized balance and structural strength. The hilt is fashioned from polished dark horn, secured by two traditional silver rivets with raised floral-form bosses decorated in fine niello. The scabbard is encased in black leather and fitted with a silver fittings. Both silver mounts are meticulously ornamented with traditional niello foliate scrolls and geometric borders, a technique synonymous with high-status Caucasian and Cossack prestige weaponry. Of exceptional historical value is the inscription on the reverse of the scabbard's chape, which bears the owner's name, Ivan Gagelin, in clear Cyrillic script. Measuring approximately 59 cm in total length, this dagger stands as a striking artifact of the personal and military heritage of the 19th-century Russian Empire. The item is in good condition.