- 284
A Massive Ritual Sword (Tegha), probably Madhya Pradesh, 18th century
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- steel
the broad curved blade carved with a variety of animal, human and decorative motifs in a lattice-like pattern around a central panel featuring a stylised cypress tree, the reverse of blade with similar design, including the engraved image of a local deity or high priest near the tip on both sides, the wide hilt also composed of forged steel and engraved with medallions enclosing figures, traces of gilding throughout
Condition
In general good condition, oxidisation and some light abrasion to surface consistent with age and use, traces of gilding, 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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Whether for executions or as a symbol of power, the exact significance of this remarkable sword is not known. The design on the blade comprises two tigers, four elephants, two equestrian figures, two horses, an image of Hanuman, an image of Ganesha, two angels, and four fighting warriors. The reverse side of the blade is similarly decorated, except with an extra four figures chasing antelopes and lions that only appear on this side. The skirted figure wearing an elaborate headdress and holding two broad swords near the tip of the blade can be identified as a local deity or high priest. Even though his exact role remains unclear, he appears to be performing an important ceremonial act.
Three very closely related swords are currently on display in the arms and armour gallery at the Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad. (These are catalogued by G.N. Pant in Catalogue of Edged Arms and Armour in the Salarjung Museum Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 1989, pp. 83, 85, nos. 201, 203, 207.) Another closely related sword, now in a European private collection, was published by Oppi Untracht in Metal Marvels: South Asian Handworks, Porvoo: Porvoo Museum, 1993, no 96. See also ibid., no.94.
Three very closely related swords are currently on display in the arms and armour gallery at the Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad. (These are catalogued by G.N. Pant in Catalogue of Edged Arms and Armour in the Salarjung Museum Hyderabad, Hyderabad, 1989, pp. 83, 85, nos. 201, 203, 207.) Another closely related sword, now in a European private collection, was published by Oppi Untracht in Metal Marvels: South Asian Handworks, Porvoo: Porvoo Museum, 1993, no 96. See also ibid., no.94.