Image Not Available

Dagger or katar

Artist INDIA, NORTHWEST

Datemid 19th century

Historical location nameSind, British India

MediumSteel blade, bronze or brass plating, iron or steel body

Dimensions2 9/16 × 8 11/16 in. (6.5 × 22 cm)

ClassificationsWeapons and Ammunition

Credit LineGift of Henry LeGrand Cannon

Object number1898.1.150

DescriptionThe pommel is either solid steel with bronze or brass plating or solid bronze or brass, in a "blooming flower" pattern. The pommel serves as the handle to a concealed dagger within the handle of the hand ax. The pommel screws into the handle for the dagger's removal. The hilt appears to be steel, plated with bronze (brass) in a "woven rope" pattern, spiraling up the handle. At the proximal and dorsal ends of the rope pattern a loop of intricate carving runs around the circumference of the hilt with a knob at the end. The haft is an elephant's head stylized and patterned in dots, with a cap or twisted rope and 2 flowers. The trunk holds an elephant prod. The prod fits loosely in the trunk but is not removable. Protruding from the back of the elephant's head is an ornate human hand with the index finger extending up. The middle, ring, and pinkie fingers are bent, as to hold something with thumb extending out. It probably held a ring or clip to attach to a belt. The blade is smooth steel, rounded at the top, slightly convex at the center and angles back out at haft end. The sheath is wood with a layer of fabric with a center woven strip of cloth down the center of each side. The top and bottom are overlaid with intricate metal floral and foliage.

On View

Not on view