Ethnographic Arms & Armour - View Single Post

Jim McDougall · 29th March 2009, 06:35 PM

Hi Gene,
Rick is spot on (of course!!

the scabbard mount is distinctly of the form seen on Mughal sheaths of the 17th century (Pant, plate XXV) with the same shape suspension fixture. The one shown in Pant has Arabic inscription in Nastaliq script.
Excellent observation on the shape of the suspension fixture, which does resemble the 'vajra' or thunderbolt, a key symbol in Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. It is interesting that decorative motif in India on weapons in particular, often borrowed themes and motif from elements in degree from all of these Faiths.
The clovers are interesting motif and may have associations to the Trimurti, though this seems an unusual application. I guess looking into similar use in some of the material culture might offer some clues.

All the best,
Jim

29th March 2009, 06:35 PM	#6
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,191	Hi Gene, Rick is spot on (of course!! the scabbard mount is distinctly of the form seen on Mughal sheaths of the 17th century (Pant, plate XXV) with the same shape suspension fixture. The one shown in Pant has Arabic inscription in Nastaliq script. Excellent observation on the shape of the suspension fixture, which does resemble the 'vajra' or thunderbolt, a key symbol in Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. It is interesting that decorative motif in India on weapons in particular, often borrowed themes and motif from elements in degree from all of these Faiths. The clovers are interesting motif and may have associations to the Trimurti, though this seems an unusual application. I guess looking into similar use in some of the material culture might offer some clues. All the best, Jim