INDIAN KHANJAR DAGGER WITH CARVED HARDSTONE HILT AND GOLD KOFTGARI DECORATION

20thCa. AD 1900�2000 An Indian khanjar dagger featuring a slightly recurved, double-edged steel blade tapering to a sharply pointed tip, with a pronounced central ridge. The forte is embellished with gold koftgari decoration forming an elaborate foliate motif. The elegantly curved hilt is fashioned from dark hardstone, possibly nephrite or serpentine, and intricately carved with overlapping leaves and scrolling vegetal patterns. The grip terminates in a sculptural floral arrangement comprising a four-petalled flower and smaller ornamental elements in contrasting pale material, possibly bone or ivory. The guard is modelled as a pair of outward-curving leaves, separated from the grip by a narrow ribbed band. The blade displays a dark grey surface with areas of wear and oxidation. Size: 40.7mm Provenance: Private London collection; US art market, before 2000. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Estimate:£700

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