Lot 164
  • 164

A Mughal or Ottoman shagreen and gem-set hilted dagger and scabbard, India or Turkey, 18th/19th century

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

  • metal, gem stones,jade and ray fish skin
  • 30cm. 
the slightly curved watered-steel blade with openwork horizontal central ridge and gold decoration comprising palmettes and inscriptions to each side, the hilt covered in green-stained shagreen set with gilt mounts containing pink gemstones, scabbard with en-suite decoration and gem-set jade terminal, bespoke velvet case

Condition

The dagger in generally good condition, some minor ware to shagreen as consistent with age and use, some dust, set in two sections, some missing parts filled in green, some of the stones replaced, the steel blade with minor patches of oxidisation, the velvet box with some wear, 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."

Catalogue Note

inscriptions split across either side of the blade's forte:
nasrun min Allahi, wa fat'hun qarib
'Help from Allah and a victory near at hand'

An almost identical example is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, inv. no.36.25.1003a, b.