Jade Handle Engraved Khanjar
Name/Title
Jade Handle Engraved KhanjarEntry/Object ID
386; Full Code: 386.87.57-TL-NBTags
Dagger, Gold Work, Stone or CrystalDescription
This is an exquisite Mughal-era Khanjar, a high-status courtly dagger that represents the zenith of Indo-Persian artistic synthesis. It is distinguished by its masterful carved Jade hilt and a sophisticated pierced and gilded blade, marking it as a piece intended for royalty or the highest levels of the Mughal nobility. The Hilt: Crafted from a single block of Nephrite Jade (often referred to as Yashm in historical texts), the hilt is carved in a naturalistic, floral form characteristic of the Shah Jahan period (17th century). The pommel is shaped like a flowering lotus or lily bud, with delicate, lobed petals. The grip is ergonomically contoured with low-relief foliate carvings that provide both beauty and a tactile hold. The Blade: A double-edged, curved blade featuring extraordinary Chased and Pierced (Munabbatkari) work. A large portion of the blade's "core" has been meticulously cut away to create an intricate, openwork vine and floral pattern (Arabesque), leaving the structural edges intact—a feat of extreme technical skill. Gold Inlay (Koftgari): The forte (base) of the blade is adorned with high-relief gold and silver inlay, depicting a lush floral bouquet. This "Teh-nishan" technique involves hammering precious metal into deeply engraved steel, creating a 3D effect that contrasts brilliantly with the polished jade. Scabbard: The item includes a simple wooden core scabbard, likely originally covered in silk or velvet, serving to protect the delicate openwork of the blade.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Unknown ArtisanDate made
circa 1750 - circa 1800Time Period
18th CenturyEthnography
Cultural Region
City
DelhiRegion
Norht IndiaCulture/Tribe
Mughal