Mughal Khanjar With Jade Handle

The “khanjar” is a type of dagger originating from Persia and widely adopted in most Islamic cultures. Besides its functional use, the “khanjar” was also worn to indicate rank or social status. The more ornate it was, the higher the rank. Many Mughal rulers had a collection of elaborately designed 'khanjar' daggers, made from precious materials such as jade, gold and precious stones. The hilt: Carved from an elegant piece of nephrite jade. Forming a beautifully carved pistol grip, depicting carved lily and acanthus leaves showing upside down foliage and tendrils. Many handles, of similar quality and design, are attributed to the mid-17th century according to Salam Kaoukji. Blade: Heavy and wide diamond section in beautiful and fine Indian wootz (jahwar). Reinforced tip. Riveted on the ricasso, to prevent the tang of the blade from emerging into the stone hilt, a custom that was already practiced in the early 17th century. The edge of the blades has been polished according to Indian aesthetics and the gutters are engraved showing a fabulous and consistent wootz pattern. Conclusion: A very good example of its kind with a stunning handle and perfectly matched blade. The large overall size of the “khanjar” gives it very high level proportions.

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