Illustrated here is a magnificent Yatagan (short sword), Workshop of Ahmed Tekelü (possibly Iranian, who was active in Istanbul between c1520-1530. The exquisite workmanship, and use of precious materials distinguish this sword as a princely weapon, and a symbol of status and prestige, also  exemplifying the opulence and refinement of Ottoman luxury arts.

An almost identical yatagan (now in Topkapi Palace, Istanbul), was made in 1526-1527, by the court jeweller Ahmed Tekel, for the Ottoman sultan, Suleyman the Magnificent, proving to us that this sword was no doubt made from the same imperial workshop.

Depicted on the base of the blade, in gold incrustation, is a combat between a dragon and a phoenix, against a background of foliate scrolls. These figures are chinese influenced,  as is the gold-inlaid cloud bands and foliate scrolls on the ivory grip, and likely to be introduced into Ottoman art through contacts  with Persia.

The term yatagan refers to a type of Turkish sword characterized by its distinctive double-curved blade, and this example is one of the earliest known yatagans to date.