Antique Art & Weaponry, September 30th, 2023
Lot 430:
An interesting Indian tulwar of classic hilt but with a rather unique serrated blade. The hilt of this sword takes the form of the classic Indian tulwar, with a discoid pommel, swelling grip, and double quillons, and this case a d-guard that flows into the pommel and terminates in a stylized lotus bud. The example in the Michael Schmiedt’s Collection of fine quality workmanship. The hilt is a classic regional tulwar style most associated with Lahore and North-west India, and finely decorated overall with silver foil decoration, called koftgari, in floral designs. The decoration remains in fine condition with few losses. The blade appears to be a native blade which has been serrated along the cutting edge with a series of vicious looking indentations and sharpened points. Along the spine the blade has been indented. Serrated blades on Indian swords are not unknown, and blades with indentations along the spine are also known but quite scarce. In the Royal Collection Trust, U.K., several such swords can be found all with original collection provenance to the 19th century including Acc. No. RCIN 38425 and Acc. No.RCIN 38768. Others with serrated blades have come up for sale in previous years including an example with an identical form blade sold at Bonhams in 2007.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 32 1/4", Blade Length : 27". Comparable sales: Elgood, R. (2004) Hindu Arms and Rituals.2. Elgood, R. (2018) Rajput Arms and Armor.3. Stone, G. (1934) A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration, and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times: Together with Some Closely Related Subjects. Portland, Maine: Southwork Press.~~. Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at [email protected]
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