Dagger with a painted scabbard and hilt.

Local artisans in various regions of North Africa and the Middle East crafted decorative daggers like this one to sell as souvenirs to travelers and collectors. They were traditionally produced in small workshops using basic hand tools to shape local woods, metals, and animal horns into distinctive regional dagger styles. The makers applied intricate painted decorations and metallic finishes to the hilts and scabbards to make the pieces visually striking and appealing to foreign visitors.

Local populations wore similar traditional daggers as ceremonial garments or everyday tools, tucked securely into woven fabric belts or sashes around the waist. Over time, the practical function of carrying sharp blades gave way to the production of ornamental versions designed specifically for display and gift-giving. These decorative souvenirs eventually became popular keepsakes traded internationally in tourist markets rather than functional weapons used in daily life.