Lot 181: AN INDIAN KATAR WITH VELVET-COVERED SCABBARD, 18TH - 19TH CENTURY

This Indian katar, or punch dagger, dates from the 18th or 19th century and is of traditional steel construction. The double-edged blade is of triangular form with a reinforced tip and is decorated with deep longitudinal fullers and engraved stylized foliate or shell-like motifs at the forte. The hilt is of characteristic H-shape, comprising two parallel side bars connected by two shaped crossbars which form the grip. The frame of the hilt retains significant remnants of silvered or light silver koftgari decoration, much of which has worn away to reveal the dark steel surface beneath. The weapon is accompanied by its original wooden-cored scabbard covered in faded red velvet, featuring a simple metallic band at the throat.

L: 36cm