Dagger with Sheath

Unknown

ca. 1650–1700 · Ivory (elephant), steel, silver, gold · Arms and Armor

The figure at the top of this beautifully carved ivory hilt is an iconic Nepalese representation of Garuda, a popular divinity associated with the Hindu god Vishnu. From at least the sixth century, Garuda was depicted as a handsome man with wings, resting on one knee and with hands clasped in prayer.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1650–1700

Medium

Ivory (elephant), steel, silver, gold

Culture

Nepalese

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2006