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An unique koumya up for auction
The koumya is a traditional Moroccan dagger. Originally created as a weapon for personal defense, it has evolved into a decorative object often associated with cultural and ceremonial use. On Saturday, June 7th, an extraordinary example of this iconic item—a Moroccan king’s dagger—will be offered at auction.
What is a koumya?
The koumya, sometimes spelled koummya, is far more than just a dagger. It is a powerful symbol of Moroccan cultural identity. Positioned at the crossroads of traditional craftsmanship and practical utility, this weapon reflects the refined artistry of Moroccan metalwork and the deep legacy of its warrior heritage.
Its curved blade, occasionally double-edged, balances elegance with functionality. Historically, these blades were forged from repurposed materials—often former European blades—showcasing the resourcefulness of Moroccan artisans who adapted foreign components using local techniques. The hilt, frequently adorned with animal-shaped (zoomorphic) motifs, serves both decorative and protective purposes, forming a natural guard for the hand. The sheath is typically crafted from copper or silver, elaborately engraved with geometric or floral patterns, and sometimes embellished with semi-precious stones—elevating it to the status of a genuine piece of art.
Traditionally, the koumya was worn at the waist, prominently displayed over the djellaba, and held in place by a cord slung over the right shoulder. Among Chleuh men, it was part of everyday dress—a symbol of manhood, self-defense, and social status. Even today, the dagger remains central in various ceremonies and festive gatherings, continuing its symbolic role in rites of passage, weddings, and communal events.
The koumya as a royal and diplomatic gift
Though the koumya has long been rooted in rural Moroccan life, it has also become a prestigious emblem within political and diplomatic circles. In its most luxurious forms, it has been used as a king of Morocco dagger, offered by the monarchy as a royal gift to symbolize respect, friendship, or gratitude toward high-ranking dignitaries.
A particularly notable example is the solid gold koumya, richly decorated, presented by King Mohammed VI to French President Emmanuel Macron in October 2024. This was no ordinary gift: it was a strategic gesture of diplomacy, where symbolism was as meaningful as any official statement. The dagger—an exceptional piece of craftsmanship set with precious stones—carries not just material and aesthetic value but also immense symbolic weight. To receive such a dagger from the king of Morocco is to be honored with a token of prestige and recognition.
The inscription engraved on the dagger and the meticulous quality of its execution confirm its role as a ceremonial and diplomatic object. It now stands as a rare and valuable witness to Morocco’s modern international relations, exemplifying the country’s use of cultural heritage in its foreign diplomacy.
Thus, the koumya, as both a utilitarian object and a historical relic, embodies the memory of a people and the diplomatic intelligence of a nation. Whether worn on the belt in traditional dress or gifted in the salons of power, this Moroccan king’s dagger continues to represent the enduring identity of the Moroccan kingdom—bridging tradition and statecraft.
A one-of-a-kind golden King of Morocco dagger at auction
On Saturday June 7th, an extraordinary koumya—a ceremonial king of Morocco dagger of remarkable quality—will be auctioned. Crafted by Morocco’s most renowned silversmiths and given as a high-level diplomatic gift, this exceptional piece is estimated at €25,000 to €35,000.
To view the sale catalog, click here.
To bid by phone or place an absentee bid, please contact us.
To bid live on Drouot, click here, or to bid live on Interenchères, click here.
What is a koumya?
The koumya, sometimes spelled koummya, is far more than just a dagger. It is a powerful symbol of Moroccan cultural identity. Positioned at the crossroads of traditional craftsmanship and practical utility, this weapon reflects the refined artistry of Moroccan metalwork and the deep legacy of its warrior heritage.
Its curved blade, occasionally double-edged, balances elegance with functionality. Historically, these blades were forged from repurposed materials—often former European blades—showcasing the resourcefulness of Moroccan artisans who adapted foreign components using local techniques. The hilt, frequently adorned with animal-shaped (zoomorphic) motifs, serves both decorative and protective purposes, forming a natural guard for the hand. The sheath is typically crafted from copper or silver, elaborately engraved with geometric or floral patterns, and sometimes embellished with semi-precious stones—elevating it to the status of a genuine piece of art.
Traditionally, the koumya was worn at the waist, prominently displayed over the djellaba, and held in place by a cord slung over the right shoulder. Among Chleuh men, it was part of everyday dress—a symbol of manhood, self-defense, and social status. Even today, the dagger remains central in various ceremonies and festive gatherings, continuing its symbolic role in rites of passage, weddings, and communal events.
The koumya as a royal and diplomatic gift
Though the koumya has long been rooted in rural Moroccan life, it has also become a prestigious emblem within political and diplomatic circles. In its most luxurious forms, it has been used as a king of Morocco dagger, offered by the monarchy as a royal gift to symbolize respect, friendship, or gratitude toward high-ranking dignitaries.
A particularly notable example is the solid gold koumya, richly decorated, presented by King Mohammed VI to French President Emmanuel Macron in October 2024. This was no ordinary gift: it was a strategic gesture of diplomacy, where symbolism was as meaningful as any official statement. The dagger—an exceptional piece of craftsmanship set with precious stones—carries not just material and aesthetic value but also immense symbolic weight. To receive such a dagger from the king of Morocco is to be honored with a token of prestige and recognition.
The inscription engraved on the dagger and the meticulous quality of its execution confirm its role as a ceremonial and diplomatic object. It now stands as a rare and valuable witness to Morocco’s modern international relations, exemplifying the country’s use of cultural heritage in its foreign diplomacy.
Thus, the koumya, as both a utilitarian object and a historical relic, embodies the memory of a people and the diplomatic intelligence of a nation. Whether worn on the belt in traditional dress or gifted in the salons of power, this Moroccan king’s dagger continues to represent the enduring identity of the Moroccan kingdom—bridging tradition and statecraft.
A one-of-a-kind golden King of Morocco dagger at auction
On Saturday June 7th, an extraordinary koumya—a ceremonial king of Morocco dagger of remarkable quality—will be auctioned. Crafted by Morocco’s most renowned silversmiths and given as a high-level diplomatic gift, this exceptional piece is estimated at €25,000 to €35,000.
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To view the sale catalog, click here.
To bid by phone or place an absentee bid, please contact us.
To bid live on Drouot, click here, or to bid live on Interenchères, click here.