Important Collection of Antique Asian Arms
Lot 249:
An interesting Indian tulwar-hilted Shamshir saber, with classically formed North Indian hilt with adistinctively decorated form with decoration in true zarneeshan fashion (inlaid as opposed tooverlaid) silver. The sword is in the classic style of an Indian tulwar, with a traditional form hilt, a discoid pommel, swelling grip, and double quillons.The example in the Schmiedt Collection of fine quality workmanship. The hilt is a classicregional tulwar style with decoration of inlaid silver most associated with Bidar in the state ofKarnataka and described as Bidri-work. Bidri-work was made from the 17th century through tothe 19th century but is distinguished by silver floral decoration inlaid into iron and burnished.Often the silver would be inlaid against a blackened iron background to highlight the decoration.The decoration on this example remains in fine condition with a few losses. The blade appearsto be a native wootz blade in fine condition as well.A few bidri decorated hilts are known though they are uncommon. One is published inMohammed (2007) and has a distinctive Arabian style nimcha hilt but made in the Indian stylewith inlaid floral silver decoration.Dating from the 18th century, blade is 17th century.Total Length (inside scabbard if present) : 38 1/2" Blade Length : 30 3/4"References:1. 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 andArmor in All Countries and in All Times: Together with Some Closely Related Subjects.Portland, Maine: Southwork Press.4. Mohamed, B. (2007) The Arts of the Muslim Knight: The Furusiyya Art Foundation.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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