Spearhead (Sang)

17th century

Not on view

This type of spearhead with curved and grooved blade, decorated base, and socket with raised rings was unique to the South Indian regions that constitute the present-day Indian states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Their raised rings relate to rings or balls (nala) seen on elephant goads (ankusa) from the early seventeenth century, and their overall iconography can be linked to the ornate style of the Nayaka kingdoms of said regions. Comparable examples are preserved in the Government Museum, Chennai, India and the Royal Collection Trust, London, United Kingdom, RCIN 38430), the latter having been gifted by the Zamindar ruler of Seithur (present-day Tamil Nadu) to the Prince of Wales during his tour of India in 1875–76.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Spearhead (Sang)
Date: 17th century
Culture: Indian, South India
Medium: Steel, silver
Dimensions: L. 18 1/2 in. (47 cm); L. of blade 9 7/16 in. (24 cm)
Classification: Shafted Weapons
Credit Line: Kay Mattson and Jeri Garbaccio Memorial Fund, 2023
Object Number: 2023.130
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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