Dagger with Hilt of Leafy Plants

Unknown

ca. 1640 · Hilt: Nephrite Blade: Watered steel · Islamic Art

Often tucked into a sash or horseman’s boot, daggers in Mughal India displayed the wealth and power of their owners. The white jade hilt of this dagger is carved with flowers arranged in a formal pattern. A long serrated leaf runs the length of the hilt, following its curve; this curved shape, called a pistol grip, originated in the Deccan and first appeared in Mughal paintings during the reign of Shah Jahan, around the time in which this dagger was made.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1640

Medium

Hilt: Nephrite Blade: Watered steel

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Spear Jr. Gift, 1982