Katar (punch dagger)

Culture Southern Indian , Thanjavur

Date1500s-early 1600s

Mediumsteel, iron and silver

Dimensions8 × 46 cm (3 1/8 × 18 1/8 in.), 1 lb, 5 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.408

DescriptionMulti-fluted triangular shaped blade. On each face, short reinforcing plates riveted & pierced, terminating in trefoils. "H"-shaped hilt once covered in silver. Side bars widen towards rear & terminate in points. Exteriors with floral chiseling & pierced with a ground of small holes. 2 bar grip joined with large swelling at center & also by short parallel ones to each side. Grip also fluted. Reinforced tip on blade.
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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