South Asia, India, likely Rajasthan, ca. late 19th century CE. This is an intimidating but exciting steel katar dagger with the wood sheath, also known as a katara or bundi dagger, perfect for jabbing punches rather than traditional slashing methods. The blade is thick and triangular: a deadly pointed tip and a pronounced midrib and fuller grooves. The H-shaped handle and guard is cast directly on to the blade - the elongated side panels protect the uses wrist and forearm and provide stability to the blade, and both are incised with a vine and foliate pattern. Spanning the center is a close-set pair of bars that facilitate a firm grip, the handle and guard panels are gilt with a shimmering gold. The sheath made from a lightweight wood panel covered in a red velvet cloth with a blue and yellow trim. These types of daggers are unique to South Asia as both religious ceremonial items and defense weapons - royalty often hunted tigers with katars to prove their bravery. Size (in sheath): 18" L x 3.25" W (45.7 cm x 8.3 cm); (blade): 9.5" L x 2.5" W (24.1 cm x 6.4 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#169284

Light surface abrasions and pitting to the blade and guard handle. Fading and losses to gilt and softening of engraved motifs. Point and edges are still sharp. Patina and dark toning throughout. Sheath is fair condition with age and use expected staining and surface wear. Tearing and losses to exterior red cloth cover and fraying to blue trim around lip and losses to yellow ribbon. Fits perfectly over blade and easily slides off.