A Dervish Crutch and scabbard with Ottoman Turkish inscription, India, 18th century

the watered-steel blade with central ridge and fullered forte, inscriptions and split palmette decoration in overlaid-gold, the softly curved jade hilt with scrolling acanthus leaf quillons and jade base with two gem-set bands, silver cylindrical scabbard decorated with repoussé flowers, gemset lock and carved-jade chape

In very good overall condition. there is some rubbing to the gilding on the blade. the jade hilt has some very minor cracks. the scabbard is in very good condition with just a few scratches and indentations, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

inscriptions

On the blade in Ottoman Turkish: 'May you always be happy and joyful'.

A Dervish crutch or zafar takieh ('cushion of victory') was typically used by Sufi as well as Hindu holy men, who would rest on it while meditating. The majority of these were simple and undecorated objects that paralleled the modest Dervish lifestyle. Nevertheless, a number of examples were lavishly ornamented, attributed to the fact that they were sometimes commissioned by wealthy believers, occasionally to be given out as gifts or for the use of rulers and courtiers.

The current lot falls under this second category. Although of Indian origin, the blade is elegantly inscribed in Ottoman Turkish, making it possible to suggest that it was once presented as a gift at court and later embellished with its gold-overlaid dedication. When locked, the short blade remains concealed in its fine scabbard, but is readily available to its owner as a means of self-defence if threatened by an unexpected attack.