Pesh Kabz_Deer_Horn_Gold
Name/Title
Pesh Kabz_Deer_Horn_GoldEntry/Object ID
22; Full Code: 22.19.15-DG-IATags
Blood, Dagger, Stag Horn, Gold Work, Pesh-KabzDescription
This is a premier Antique Pesh-Kabz, a specialized armor-piercing dagger originating from the Indo-Persian frontier, likely dating to the 19th century. This specimen represents the "Elite Utility" tier of your collection, featuring a high-performance T-spine blade paired with exceptionally rare gold enamelwork on both the hilt and scabbard fittings. It is a masterclass in the fusion of high-status courtly art and functional military engineering. Core Components & Engineering Excellence The Blade (Reinforced T-Section): A single-edged, high-carbon steel blade that tapers to a needle-sharp point. The T-Spine: The defining mechanical feature is the thickened longitudinal ridge along the back. Mechanical Logic: In your professional framework of "Operational Certainty," the T-spine is the ultimate structural guarantee. It transforms a slender blade into a rigid I-beam, preventing the steel from flexing or snapping when encountering high-density materials like heavy leather or mail. This ensures 100% of the kinetic energy from a thrust is delivered to the tip. The Hilt (Antler with Gold Enamel): The handle is constructed from two slabs of textured antler, secured to the full tang with steel pins. Material Properties: Antler provides a naturally high-friction surface, which is essential for a tool designed for high-force thrusting. Gold Enamelwork: The bolsters and the spine of the hilt are encased in dense gold enameling (Meenakari) or high-grade gold Koftgari. The patterns feature rhythmic floral and geometric motifs, signifying the owner’s high administrative rank. Pommel Loop: The hilt terminates in a decorative gold-toned hinge/loop, historically used for a wrist lanyard to ensure the weapon was never lost in the chaos of a high-stakes engagement. The Scabbard (Ceremonial Grade): Housed in a wooden-core scabbard wrapped in vibrant crimson velvet. Gold Fittings: The scabbard features an oversized gold-enamel locket (throat) and chape (tip) with intricate openwork (piercing) along the edges. This "Radiant Finish" documents the transition of the Pesh-Kabz from a frontier tool to a piece of noble regalia.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Unknown ArtisanDate made
circa 1800 - circa 1850Time Period
19th CenturyEthnography
Cultural Region
State/Province
RajasthanCulture/Tribe
Rajput, Mughal