Algerian 19th Century Kabyle Flissa Berber Sword

RARE 1800s Antique Flussa / Arab Islamic Sword – African Berber Sabre Nimcha Kaskara Style

Description: A rare 19th-century North African / Islamic sword, known as a Flissa (Flussa) — a traditional weapon of the Kabyle and Berber tribes of Algeria. This elegant sabre exhibits the distinctive narrow, single-edged blade and decorative brass hilt typical of Islamic and Berber craftsmanship of the mid-1800s. Comparable in form and heritage to the Moroccan Nimcha and Sudanese Kaskara swords.

Features:

Period: Mid–Late 1800s

Origin: North Africa (Algeria / Berber Tribes)

Type: Flissa / Islamic Sabre / Tribal Sword

Forged steel blade with engraved or chiseled geometric motifs and inlaid with gold (see photos)                                                                                                                                                                                                        An elegant wooden handle with bronze elements richly decorated with ornaments and carvings in traditional tribal design

Excellent example of North African Islamic arms

Condition: Good antique condition. Blade with natural age patina and some oxidation; edge intact. Hilt solid with minor wear from age and use, shows surface wear typical of 19th-century pieces. Uncleaned and unrestored, preserving character.

Measurements (approx.):

Overall length: 41 1/2 inches

Blade length: 37 inches

Collector’s Note: True Flussa / Berber swords from the 1800s are increasingly difficult to find in condition. This piece represents North African Islamic craftsmanship — a remarkable example of regional artistry and a great addition to any ethnographic or edged weapon collection.