A Royal Talwar Belonging to Mir Karam'ali Khan of Talpur, Hyderabad, Sind, Pakistan, 19th Century

the slightly curved steel blade retaining gold damascened calligraphic cartouches and inscription, hilt with gold koftgari flowers

In generally good condition, surface wear and abrasion, some pitting and patination, 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
In the lobed cartouche:

'.... Mir Karam'ali Khan Talpur' 

On the blade:  Qur'an, surah al-Saff LXI), parts of 13. 

In the two cartouches:  Invocations to Imam 'Ali.

On the edge, later owner's name as 'Its owner Ahmad Khan ...'

Mir Karam'ali Khan Talpur (d.1244/1828), son of Mir Sobdar, was one of the four brothers who ruled in Hyderabad of Sind. He is described as a very just and wise ruler. His reign was a peaceful one in which no wars took place, consequently he had ample time to devote to the promotion of art and science and to the encouragement of commerce. He contracted friendship with Fath 'Ali Shah Qajar, and envoys used to come and go between the two rulers, exchanging presents. As the Mir was fond of swords, rich and beautiful swords were imported from different countries and many good sword makers, as well as calligraphers and painters, besides men of art and science, came from Persia and Khurasan to live in the town of Hyderabad. (Kalichbeg, Mirza Fredunbeg Kalichbeg, A History of Sind, ii, Karachi, 1902, pp. 212-3).