Khanjarli Dagger, Wootz Blade
Khanjarli Dagger, Wootz Blade
Origin: South India | Culture: Indian | Period: 17th - 18th Century
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A fine example of a khanjarli, categorised as such by the short-recurved blade and distinctively shaped hilt. In this case the hilt is made up of four plates, including a large lunette pommel. The khanjarli form is thought to have evolved from the chilanum, which was largely produced in the Deccan and South India in the seventeenth century.
The blade is forged from wootz steel, with a particularly thick raised central spine which is flanked by deep precise fullers, and a central stylistic pattern. The steel tang on which the grips are secured is forged as one piece with the blade.
A similar one can be seen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession 36.25.1065a, b.