Arts of the Islamic World & India including Fine Rugs and Carpets

A Mughal gem-set jade-hilted dagger and scabbard, India, 17th century

Auction Closed

October 27, 03:41 PM GMT

Estimate

120,000 - 150,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

the double-edged watered steel blade with central ridge, jade hilt with pistol grip ornately decorated with gem-set, foil-backed floral and leafy stems, the textile-covered wooden scabbard with mounts to chape and tip also with gem-set decoration on a light blue enamelled ground

37.3cm.

The gem-set kundan decoration on the hilt bright, parts of incising of design still visible in the jade, some erosion to foil backing of stones although these remain bright and colourful, the blade with minor nicks along one edge and some scratches and oxidisation, the wooden scabbard worn, edges broken, losses to velvet covering, notably along these edges, the mounts in good condition with some hairline scratches to enamel, slight oxidisation to foil backings, 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."

Private collection, U.K., acquired circa 1976.

Reserved for a high ranking individual, the vibrant gem-set ornamentation adorning the jade hilt on this dagger was created using the kundan technique. Using hyper-purified gold, the inlayer (zar-nishan) would be able to refine the soft metal into strips of malleable foil which become adhesive at room temperature. As a result, it allows the craftsman to create elaborate designs using colourful gemstones and the ductile gold without any need for glue or soldering. The design on this hilt is particularly elaborate and echoed on the two mounts on the wood, velvet-covered scabbard. These are set against a blue enamel ground which beautifully compliments the green jade of the hilt.