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Old Today, 12:08 AM   #9
Jim McDougall
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Route 66
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Default Zafar Takieh

Remarkable example of what reminds me of the Mughal court sword which is called the 'zafar takieh' (=cushion or crutch of victory). These were the sword versions of the crutch type dagger which was supposed to have been used by regal figures reclining in their courts during audiences etc.

Obviously this is a more stylized version and with the entwined serpent which seems to be among certain symbols in the complex dynamics of Persian imagery. I recall in the Sudan there were occasions of snakes appearing on certain blades and though cannot recall detail, it seems associated with certain Sufi dogma.

Persian theology including elements of Sufi are well known in the Mughal courts of India. The attached image of the Lion and cartouche resemble those used characteristically on the Persian trade blades of mid 18th into 19th with these representing Assad Allah which were well known through many ethnographic spheres, in my previous post this is on a Bedouin shamshir.

The beautiful filigree of the scabbard reminds me of Hyderabad style work though typically it is embossed silver in the mounts, The European style carry rings seem likely to be of course from those influences in the British Raj as the rococo leaf type decoration .
Recalls the kinds of weapon often presented during durbar. I have seen examples of native weapon forms such as remarkable Chinese jian crafted by British artisans and jewelers specifically created for diplomatic purposes, in this case perhaps for such events in the princely states and courts in India.

Though not typical for the usual Indo-Persian tulwar, the familiar grip form can be seen, and technically the term tulwar is applicable despite the variation.

The other example attached is a Deccani version in Persian form in steel, but with typical features of the unbiquitous Indo-Persian form seen. The blade is British M1788 cavalry with koftgari added at forte, likely from East India Co. contexts.

With this tulwar example posted in the OP, it is difficult to assess age on an item of this elegance which has been specifically produced in traditional form and combined elements and in silver. I can see watered pattern in the blade, but do not have the expertise to say more on the metallurgy.
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Last edited by Jim McDougall; Today at 12:32 AM.
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