Kastane (short saber)

Culture Sri Lankan (Ceylonese)

Cultureblade European

Datelate 1700s–early 1800s

Mediumsteel, wood, brass, copper, silver and tin

Dimensions64.8 × 51.4 cm (25 1/2 × 20 1/4 in.), 1 lb, 4 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.296

DescriptionWooden grip ending in animal head (probably a yali or makara), fitted with silvered brass collar and inlaid silver strips. Guard of chiseled and silvered brass with arms of hilt, rear quillon and knukleguard, all ending in animal-head terminals. Small European blade with brass inlay.
Label TextSri Lankan culture has been shaped by a series of external influences over the centuries. Hindu Tamils from southern India have been present on the island since its prehistory. After 500 B.C.E., Sinhalese from northern India came to the island, bringing Buddhism with them. The Dutch established a major presence in the 1600s. This kastane comes from the period of Dutch influence. The pommel is decorated with the snub-nosed Sinhalese lion, while the brass hand-guard features the lion-headed mythological creature called a serapendiya; the blade imitates European styles.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from American Art Association, Anderson Galleries (NYC), Macomber sale, December 10-12, 1936 (lot 186). Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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