INDIAN MUGHAL KHANJAR DAGGER WITH LAPIS LAZULI HILT AND GOLD DECORATION

AD 1800�1900 An Indian Mughal khanjar dagger featuring a strongly curved steel blade tapering to a sharp point. The blade displays a distinctive watered pattern, possibly indicative of wootz steel, and is embellished at the forte with elaborate gold koftgari decoration comprising symmetrical floral and scrolling vegetal motifs. The hilt is carved from vivid blue hardstone, possibly lapis lazuli, featuring a cylindrical grip with moulded bands and a broad pommel terminating in two stylised animal heads, possibly lions. The guard is similarly fashioned from blue stone, with a gently flaring profile. The blade and hilt display areas of surface wear and discolouration. Size: 38.5mm 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:£500

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