Arts of the Islamic World & India including Fine Rugs and Carpets

A MUGHAL GEM-SET IVORY HORSE HEAD-HILTED DAGGER, INDIA, 17TH CENTURY

Restricted Species

Auction Closed

October 27, 04:55 PM GMT

Estimate

28,000 - 35,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

A MUGHAL GEM-SET IVORY HORSE HEAD-HILTED DAGGER, INDIA, 17TH CENTURY

the carved ivory hilt of horse-head form with flowing mane to one side, eyes and bridle set in the kundan technique with rubies, a row of turquoise stones set down the mane, finely carved floral design to base, the gently curved double-edged watered-steel blade with faint central ridge, gold-overlaid inscriptions at forte

44.5cm.

"This lot contains ivory. Due to recent changes in the laws of many countries (e.g. US, France) Replica Shoes 's recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict the import of elephant ivory and prohibit the import of African elephant ivory. Please note that Replica Shoes 's will not assist buyers with CITES licence applications where a buyer elects to either collect or arrange their own shipping, nor will Replica Shoes 's assist with the international movement of ivory by air, either as freight or through hand carry. Replica Shoes 's shipping will only assist in shipping the lot to either domestic UK or EU destinations, where delivery is made by road transport. A buyer's inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation. "

inscriptions

On the blade, on both sides, the names of four of the seven sleepers of Ephesus and their dog, an invocation to God, and the Arabic phrase: tawakkuli 'ala khaliqi ('My trust in is my Creator'). The other names of the seven sleepers are possibly concealed by the hilt.

Amongst the most personal objects in the possession of a Mughal prince or courtier was his 'parade' or 'dress' dagger. By Jahangir's reign, edged weapons were no longer used exclusively for warfare; they had become great works of art in their own right, being carved from ivory or jade and decorated with enamel, precious metals and stones. Mughal princes, nobles and high officials were honoured regularly by the emperor with jewelled daggers, and those with animal hilts such as this example, containing rubies and turquoise, were reserved particularly for members of the highest rank and position at court.