18th Century Indian Khanda Sword
Sale 2009 - Arms, Armor and Militaria Online
Lots Open
Jun 26, 2024
Lots Close
Jul 9, 2024
Timed Online / Cincinnati
Estimate
$500 -
$800
Lot Description
18th Century Indian Khanda Sword
33" blade. 42" overall with hilt. Double edge sword with a broad spear tip and ornamental iron brace to both sides that appears to be chiseled in the shape of a dragon or serpent head. Hilt has a clamshell style guard, wide chiseled knuckle bow, and a chiseled spike pommel.
The khanda sword is a weapon that originated in India and was held to great prestige among Rajput warriors. Users could wield it one handed, or use the pommel spike as an extended grip for two handed use. Rajput warriors would often wield the sword two handed and swing it above their heads when surrounded by enemies, preferring an honorable last stand rather than be captured.
It is believed that straight swords similar to the khanda were developed during the iron age Mahajanapadas (600-300 BC), and that sculptures from the Gupta era (AD 280-550) also show figures with khanda-like broadswords. Some experts believe that the final form of khanda was approved by the great Rajput emperor, Prithviraj Chauhan (1166-1192), who is said to have added the brace and flattened blade to strengthen the sword's cutting ability. Today khanda swords are often seen in religious iconography, theater, art, and historical depictions of India.
The khanda sword is a weapon that originated in India and was held to great prestige among Rajput warriors. Users could wield it one handed, or use the pommel spike as an extended grip for two handed use. Rajput warriors would often wield the sword two handed and swing it above their heads when surrounded by enemies, preferring an honorable last stand rather than be captured.
It is believed that straight swords similar to the khanda were developed during the iron age Mahajanapadas (600-300 BC), and that sculptures from the Gupta era (AD 280-550) also show figures with khanda-like broadswords. Some experts believe that the final form of khanda was approved by the great Rajput emperor, Prithviraj Chauhan (1166-1192), who is said to have added the brace and flattened blade to strengthen the sword's cutting ability. Today khanda swords are often seen in religious iconography, theater, art, and historical depictions of India.
This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Condition Report
Fair condition. Item has pitting overall and darkened patina. Blade and hilt have slight wiggle when handling sword. Blade edge has minor and moderate sized bites to both sides.
The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to
age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and
restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition
they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make
no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind
as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue
description or a condition report shall not amount to a full
accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman
staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the
Department prior to bidding.
The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or
in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an
item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for
inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect
the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have
requested, received and understood any condition report provided
by Hindman.
Please email armsarmor@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.