Dagger - Fine Ikhanjar with Damascus blade, Mughal-style silver koftgari and bone grip - Asia - 1980-1990

This combines a pattern-welded (Damascus) steel blade, silver koftgari decoration, and a traditional Mughal-style bone hilt. It is an authentic example of North Indian workmanship from the Rajasthan–Punjab tradition, made during the final phase of the Mughal aesthetic in arms and armour.

The curved, double-edged blade displays a clear and attractive watered pattern characteristic of pattern welding, with rounded “bubble-like” motifs and flowing laminations visible throughout. Near the forte, the blade carries a silver inlaid floral cartouche, an uncommon and desirable feature indicating a higher workshop standard. The blade is forged in the classic recurved khanjar profile, ending in a fine, sharp tip.

The hilt is fitted with polygonal bone grip plates, mounted over an iron core and secured with resin in the traditional manner. The pommel terminates in the typical hooked form, decorated with engraved silver koftgari. The guard, with its flared, faceted quillons, features further silver inlay in scrolling vegetal motifs of the Mughal style.

The scabbard is constructed in iron and fully decorated in floral silver koftgari, with dense foliate patterns extending along the entire outer surface. A broad suspension band with an iron ring is mounted near the throat. The interior is lined with densely compacted textile.

Weight: 200 g
Overall length in scabbard: 26 cm (≈ 10.24″)
Blade length: 15 cm (≈ 5.91″)
Blade width at widest point: 2 cm (≈ 0.79″)

Very good antique condition, consistent with authentic age. The blade shows expected surface oxidation, stable patination and minor darkened areas, with the pattern-welded structure strongly visible. The inlaid silver cartouche near the forte remains intact. Koftgari decoration on the hilt and scabbard is well preserved with natural losses to high points from handling. Bone plates are aged but stable, with the typical crackling and colouration. The scabbard lining shows textile wear consistent with period use. No structural instability.

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