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Dagger (Chilanum)
Deccan, India
16th century
length: 36cm, weight: 296g
This rare Deccani steel chilanum comprises a hilt etched in the Persian style with a hunting dog lunging at the throat of a running deer surrounded by various types of
flower heads amid scrolling foliage. The reverse of the hilt shows a similar scene but with the animals placed differently, although their features are obscured by wear.
The etched spaces between the raised design are infilled with black lac or an enamel-like substance. The unusual curved, chiselled steel blade is pierced and shows on
either side two lions or dogs, an elephant head and palmettes at either end of two wide grooves.
The blade and hilt have smoothed contours from use and great age.
Persian motifs although rare are encountered on Deccan weaponry. Elwood (2004, p. 175) illustrates a late 16th or early 17th century Deccani dagger hilt that is
engraved with obviously Persian-inspired designs that include two adorsed hares amid scrolling foliage.
References: Elgood, R., Hindu Arms and Ritual: Arms and Armour from India 1400-1865, Eburon, 2004.
Inventory no.: 741
This Item is available - Ask about this item
Dagger (Chilanum)
Deccan, India
16th century
length: 36cm, weight: 296g
This rare Deccani steel chilanum comprises a hilt etched in the Persian style with a hunting dog lunging at the throat of a running deer surrounded by various types of
flower heads amid scrolling foliage. The reverse of the hilt shows a similar scene but with the animals placed differently, although their features are obscured by wear.
The etched spaces between the raised design are infilled with black lac or an enamel-like substance. The unusual curved, chiselled steel blade is pierced and shows on
either side two lions or dogs, an elephant head and palmettes at either end of two wide grooves.
The blade and hilt have smoothed contours from use and great age.
Persian motifs although rare are encountered on Deccan weaponry. Elwood (2004, p. 175) illustrates a late 16th or early 17th century Deccani dagger hilt that is
engraved with obviously Persian-inspired designs that include two adorsed hares amid scrolling foliage.
References: Elgood, R., Hindu Arms and Ritual: Arms and Armour from India 1400-1865, Eburon, 2004.
Inventory no.: 741
This Item is available - Ask about this item
