Moghul kard, silver mounted, Indian (c 1850)

Title	Moghul kard, silver mounted
Nationality	Indian
Period	c 1850

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This late Moghul dagger from the final years of the dynasty, before it was overthrown in the aftermath of the Indian Mutiny (1857/58), was almost certainly brought back as plunder from the Sikh wars of the 1840s or the Mutiny.

It could also be a product of one of Ranjit Singh's armourers, the lion motif being common to both Sikh and Moghul traditions.

The 10" blade is of Wootz steel and is struck with an armourer's mark. It is in good shape for its age.

The scabbard appears to have the original red velvet (now somewhat faded). The mounts are worked up from plate and, although damaged (a crack in the chape and some missing filigree work to the edges of both elements), are of high quality. The lion's eyes on the hilt are cabochon cut rubies set in gold mounts. There is a compartment in the hilt, accessed by removing the lion head, perhaps for opium or gold coins? The lion head also appears to be worked up from plate (as opposed to a casting).

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Dirks : Indian : 19th Century]

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