Sikh fighting axe, Indian (c 1830)

Title	Sikh fighting axe
Nationality	Indian
Period	c 1830

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These axes came into the possession of the British as spoil from the Sikh wars of the mid-19th century. This fine example has an iron shaft covered with silver close plate with a parcel gilt finish. The hammer of the blade and the base of the shaft are gilt bronze set with coloured glass.

The base of the shaft unscrews to reveal a small general-purpose knife with a close plate silver shaft. The unusual features are: 1) the imitation stone setting at both ends; 2) the relatively small size - normally these axes are some six inches longer with blades bigger in proportion.

The shaft has lost some 15% of its original finish and now has scattered rust spots throughout. However, both faces of the axe retain the bulk of their original finish.

In 35 years of dealing, this is the first example I have come across of this size and decorative style.

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

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

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