Katar

Object/Artifact

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Leviathan: The Archit Patel Collection

The image presents a ceremonial dagger alongside its red velvet sheath, both lying on a marble surface. The dagger features an elaborate handle with intricate silver filigree work and a pattern that suggests gothic or medieval influences. It has a metallic blade that tapers to a sharp point, and the grip design indicates that it might be a piece rooted in historical or ceremonial significance. The sheath is adorned with a simple, elegant cross pattern stitched in golden thread, adding a regal touch to the ensemble. A small, white paper tag marked with the number "32" in red ink is attached to the sheath, hinting that this item could be part of a collection or exhibit. From its remarkable craftsmanship, this dagger likely serves more as a decorative or collectible relic rather than a utilitarian tool, embodying artistic as well as historical values.

The image presents a ceremonial dagger alongside its red velvet sheath, both lying on a marble surface. The dagger features an elaborate handle with intricate silver filigree work and a pattern that suggests gothic or medieval influences. It has a metallic blade that tapers to a sharp point, and the grip design indicates that it might be a piece rooted in historical or ceremonial significance. The sheath is adorned with a simple, elegant cross pattern stitched in golden thread, adding a regal touch to the ensemble. A small, white paper tag marked with the number "32" in red ink is attached to the sheath, hinting that this item could be part of a collection or exhibit. From its remarkable craftsmanship, this dagger likely serves more as a decorative or collectible relic rather than a utilitarian tool, embodying artistic as well as historical values.

Name/Title

Katar

Entry/Object ID

32; Full Code: 32.24.20-DG-IA

Tags

Engraving, Dagger, Katar

Description

One of the two Katars from a presentation set made as a gift to person of status. Both are heavy blades, with traditional chiseled tips but without prominent diamond cross section but rather oval/almond like cross section. The Blade has through engraving depicting a hunting scene, involving, elephants with Ohda and Mahut, and tigers or leopards being hunted. This type of presentation daggers became popular after the Britishers started coming for hunting inn the forests of Princely state, from mid 19th to early 20th Centuries. This is a rare and visually striking matched pair of Katars (Indian punch daggers), approximately 200 years old (dating to the early 19th century). They are distinguished by their masterful pierced openwork (Munabbatkari) blades, which feature complex zoomorphic imagery. The Blades: Each double-edged, triangular blade is meticulously hand-cut to depict a hunting scene. The central openwork features a royal elephant carrying a howdah, surrounded by predatory animals (likely lions or tigers) and scrolling foliage. This type of "soul-less" or pierced blade required immense skill to ensure the remaining steel frame remained structurally sound for combat. The Handles: Each hilt features the classic H-frame with dual transverse grip bars. The grip bars are shaped into a "swelled" or spindle profile to provide a secure and ergonomic hold when clenched in a fist. Aesthetics: One katar shows a more aged, dark patina consistent with 200 years of history, while the other appears more polished, potentially indicating a varied history of preservation. The reinforced tips are left solid to maintain the dagger's primary function as an armor-piercing weapon. Scabbards: The pair is accompanied by royal red velvet scabbards, accented with gold-thread trim, reflecting the high status of the original owner.

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Unknown Artisan

Date made

circa 1700 - circa 1750

Time Period

18th Century

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Region

North India

Dimensions

Dimension Description

22"

Length

12 in

Material

Engraved HCS

Acquisition

Acquisition Method

Purchase

Place

City

Udaipur, Rajasthan