Dagger with Sheath

Indian, probably Deccan

Not on view

Like their martial counterparts, ceremonial daggers and swords were also often decorated with talismanic motifs and inscriptions. The blade of this dagger bears Arabic inscriptions praising Allah, ‘Ali, and the Prophet Muhammad. One side features verses from the popular prayer Nad-i ‘Ali. The inclusion of rubies and emeralds on the hilt may point to the Hindu belief in the efficacy of precious gems to ward off evil.

Dagger with Sheath, Steel, nephrite, gold, ruby, emerald, silver, wood, velvet, Indian, probably Deccan

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Side a

Dagger with Sheath, Steel, nephrite, gold, ruby, emerald, silver, wood, velvet, Indian, probably Deccan
Dagger with Sheath, Steel, nephrite, gold, ruby, emerald, silver, wood, velvet, Indian, probably Deccan
Dagger with Sheath, Steel, nephrite, gold, ruby, emerald, silver, wood, velvet, Indian, probably Deccan

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