An Indian sword and scabbard, Kutch, West India, 19th century

with a slightly curved slender steel blade, the re-gilt copper scabbard chased and engraved, decorated with various animals and a seated hunter between floral scrolls, with two embossed lionhead masks set above with a ring and loop, the re-gilt copper hilt re-set with foil-backed coloured glass stones on a stylised floral stem, some losses and some restoration

some restorations, hilt and scabbard re-gilt with replacement foiled glass stones, 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."

A similar pair of swords form part of the collection of Clive of India preserved at Powis Castle (see Treasures from India: The Clive Collection at Powis Castle, London, 1987, pp.53 and 55, no.48). A sword in the National Museum, Delhi (illustrated by Jaiwant Paul in Arms and Armour: Traditional Weapons of India, 2005, pp.135-6) has the same embossed lionhead masks as on the present scabbard.