Hansia knife of Nepal and Northern India

[Ian]

I searched the forum and found no reference to the hansia knife of Nepal (and northern India), even though it is a common tool and occasional weapon in that region. This humble knife deserves some consideration because it is clearly linked to the shape of the kukri, kora and ram dao that serve other functions in Nepalese life.

The following example finished today on eBay and appears to have some age--it may well be 19th C. In any case, it shows a classic form, with a down curved blade that ends in a small "curl." I have seen these implements used to cut down small trees and clear vegetation, as well as take the head of a chicken for the cooking pot.

They are everyday knives that see a lot of hard use. This particular example shows some longstanding oxidation, and a mark at forte that has become blurred and indistinguishable over time.

I shall post better pics when it arrives.

Ian.

[Ian]

This illustration is from Rawson, The Indian Sword. The hansia has similarities to the kora, kukri, and ram dao (nos. 1,2,3) and also resembles Nayar temple sword (no. 4).

Ian