LARGE INDIAN STEEL PESH-KABZ DAGGER WITH ENGRAVED SILVER TIGER-HEAD

AD 1800�1900 A large Indian pesh-kabz dagger featuring a long, slightly curved steel blade tapering to a sharply pointed tip. The elaborately modelled silver-coloured hilt terminates in a sculptural tiger's head with an open mouth, apparently grasping a smaller animal, possibly a hare. The tiger's eyes are embellished with small red gemstone settings, possibly rubies or garnets, while the ears are adorned with contrasting dark cabochons. The entire hilt is richly engraved with intricate floral and vegetal scrollwork, extending across the curved grip and the sculptural animal figures. The blade has a broad, polished surface with a gently curved cutting edge. The metal displays areas of wear, minor oxidation and patination. Size: 49mm 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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