? A MUGHAL SILVER AND IRON FIRANGI SWORD HILT, 18TH – 19TH CENTURY India, Deccan. Finely cast with intricate engraving, the grip is of pistol form, tapering gently toward the pommel and terminating in a prominent curved spike, the knuckle guard extends from the quillon block to the pommel, the guard itself flares outward into a broad, V-shaped crosspiece, each terminal curving outward into small stylized scrolls. Both the guard and knuckle bow are decorated with dense floral and foliate motifs, interspersed with multi-armed deities seated atop lions, a swan, and large lotus blossom, the knuckle-guard further adorned with an animal-headed deity carrying a mace.
Weight: 501 g
Dimensions: Height 31.2 cm
Provenance: A private collection in Rajasthan, India.
Condition: Good condition with expected old wear and casting irregularities. Some warping, expected tarnish to silver parts, corrosion to iron, and remnants of old varnish. Shallow surface scratches, minor nicks and dents. Small losses possible.
The fi-rangi is a type of straight, double-edged sword used in India, distinguished by its European-style blade often repurposed into an Indian hilt and guard system. Typically, it features a deep central ridge or fuller and a hilt with pistol‐grip shape, knuckle bow and curved pommel spike, aligning its functional elements with local martial traditions. This fusion of European blade technology with Indian mounting reflects the cross-cultural arms trade and adaptation in the early modern period of South Asia. Moreover, the firangi’s form and ornamentation often indicate high status, becoming as much a ceremonial or symbolic weapon as a practical one.
Museum comparison:
Compare a related firangi sword with a similar shaped hilt, dated to the 19th century, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, object number 36.25.1316.
Auction comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Sotheby’s London, 25 April 2018, lot 159
Price: GBP 35,000 or approx. EUR 58,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: An Indian sword with Firangi blade and scabbard, 17th/18th century
Expert remark: Compare the closely related form of the hilt and velvet handle. Note that the blade is included as well as the gilt decoration.
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