Dagger "katar" ·  India · ID: 3042213

Description

typical: handle made up of two parallel bars connected by two, or more, crosspieces, double-edged blade, elaborate open worked sheath with leather and cloth inlay, min. dam., slight traces of corrosion;
the oldest and most characteristic of Indian knives. Princes and nobles were often portrayed wearing a “katar” at their side. This was not only a precaution for self-defense, but it was also meant to show their wealth and position. Upper-class “Rajputs” and “Mughals” would even hunt tigers with a pair of “katar”. For a hunter to kill a tiger with such a short-range weapon was considered the surest sign of bravery and martial skill.

The object Dagger “katar” with the object ID 3042213 was part of the auction 86th Tribal Art Auction on May 27, 2017. The object with the lot number 72 achieved a sales price of EUR 750 with an asking price of EUR 200.

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Comparing literature

Stone, George Cameron, A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in all countries and all times, New York 1934, p. 345