Jamadhar (punch dagger)

Culture Southern Indian , Thanjavur

Cultureblade probably European

Date1600s

Mediumsteel, iron, silver, brass and copper

Dimensions8.5 × 42.5 cm (3 3/8 × 16 3/4 in.), 1 lb, 4 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.483

DescriptionPlain double edge triangular blade of flat cross-section, probably the tip from a European sword. Silvered riveted reinforcing plates extend down both faces of blade in form of pierced yali (tusked feline monsters). There are three holes in the blade arranged in a triangle at the tip of the reinforcing plates, of which two are filled in with copper; these would appear to indicate a different prior mounting for this blade.

"H"-shaped hilt. Side bars widen towards base & terminate in blunt points. Outer edges are row of small steel balls. Remainder of side bars chiseled with flowers & yalis (both once broken & now repaired with brass behind grip). Grip is flattened oval section bar chiseled & pierced with flowers & yalis; there are traces of silvering.
Label TextThe European blade and intricately decorated grip on this piece are typical of the southern Indian style.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on May 1, 1931 from W.O. Oldman (London, England). Given to the Museum on January 8, 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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