Indian Steel Katar

Wootz-Bladed Katar with Chiselled Steel Handles & Original Scabbard

South India, probably Tanjore

17th century

length: 44cm, weight: 656g

This fine push dagger or katar has a watered-steel wootz blade and a chiselled steel grip. The side bars of the grip are chiselled with an elegant floral scroll on one side (one external side and the matching internal side.) A different design – one that is more geometric – is visible on the other external side of the grip and the matching internal side. The fortes on either side are chiselled with these two designs.

The two cross bars are elaborately cast. They like the rest of the grip, have plenty of wear associated with use.

The blade is grooved and has a bulbous tip.

The katar retains its original scabbard (with some minor losses). It is of leather over a wooden substructure. The leather is embossed with a floral trellis design. The scabbard has an old collection label attached.

References

Elgood, R., Hindu Arms and Ritual: Arms and Armour from India 1400-1865, Eburon, 2004.

Hales, R., Islamic and Oriental Arms and Armour: A Lifetime’s Passion, Robert Hale CI Ltd, 2013.

Provenance

UK art market

Inventory no.: 2191

SOLD