Name/Title
Rampuri Brass BulbulEntry/Object ID
323; Full Code: 323.83.132-KN-NBTags
Rampuri, Knife, FoldersDescription
This artifact is a Modern Rampuri Chaku, distinguished by its specialized zoomorphic hilt shaped like a Bulbul bird. It represents a fusion of traditional Northern Indian mechanical cutlery with high-relief figurative brasswork. This specimen utilizes an external spring-loaded back-lock, documenting a design that prioritizes mechanical security and decorative "Process of Adornment."
Core Components & Engineering
The Blade (Clip-Point Stiletto Steel): A single-edged blade with a straight spine and an aggressive clip-point taper.
Geometry: The clip-point profile is engineered for Point-Pressure Concentration. By lowering the tip relative to the spine, the tool concentrates strike force into a microscopic area, maximizing piercing efficiency. * Locking Tang: The tang features a deep notch on the spine that interfaces with the heavy external leaf spring.
The Hilt (Zoomorphic Brass Casting): The hilt is constructed of two heavy brass scales over a steel frame, cast in the likeness of a Bulbul.
Anatomical Detailing: The "head" of the bird serves as the pivot bolster, while the "tail" forms a flared pommel. The scales are heavily chased to represent feathers and scales.
Administrative Record: The tail is embossed with "RAMPUR" and "YAMEEN", documenting the maker and the regional origin. The number "323" is etched into the hilt, likely as a collection index.
Aesthetic Accents: Red pigment is applied to the "crest" and "throat" area of the bird, mirroring the anatomical markings of certain Bulbul species.
The Mechanism (External Spring-Loaded Back-Lock): * Operational Logic: A tempered steel leaf spring is pinned to the spine of the handle.
Mechanical Input: To close the blade, the user pulls back on the brass "lever" (the bird's crest) to lift the spring lug out of the tang notch.
Certainty of Lock: Once deployed to 180°, the high-tension spring snaps the lock into place, converting the folder into a structurally stable fixed-blade.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Yameen AnsariDate made
circa 2021Dimensions
Dimension Description
11"Length
4-1/4 inAcquisition
Acquisition Method
Purchase
