An enigmatic type of axe, this one probably from tribal north India.
This item has been sold.
Overall length
84.5 cm
Blade length
74 cm
Blade thickness
Base spine 9 mm
Middle spine 8 mm
5 cm from tip spine 5 mm
Blade width
Base 32 mm
Middle 30 mm
Widest 33 mm
5 cm from tip 15.5 mm
Weight
771 grams
Point of balance
16 cm from crossguard
Materials
Wootz-steel, iron, gold, resin
Origin
Punjab, probably Lahore
Dating
Circa 1800-1850
Provenance
Dutch antique art market
Sold
Description
One of the most rare and sought-after Indian sword types, the sosun pattah -literally "lily leaf"- is characterized by a graceful forward curving blade. In this case, it is made of fine Persian wootz, highly prized for its bold patterns that stand out in high contrast. The blade has a T-shaped cross-section, the widened spine gives rigidity to the thin blade. The spine is engraved over its full length. At the base of the blade is floral engraving in Persian style.
The hilt is of typical Punjabi form, probably Lahore, with its vase-like grip section, forward inclined quillons, and the knuckle bow that terminates in a lotus bud. The style of the golden damascening, done with rather thin gold wire, is also typical for this region.
Lahore was the seat of the Sikh Empire between 1799–1849. The Sikh presence attracted many sword makers from far and wide to the city, producing arms for the Sikh armies.
Restoration
It comes in a recent polish by Philip Tom to re-reveal the fine wootz. Comes with a new resting scabbard.
Currently available:
Mentioning the son of a Maharajah and a year corresponding to 1887 A.D.
€6000,-
This peculiar sword was used by the Garo people of Assam for fighting, clearing the jungle, and animal…
€1800,-
These mysterious weapons were already obsolete when the first ethnographers encountered them.
€3200,-
An interesting South Indian style katar with an imported European blade.
€650,-
