Dagger (Khanjar) with Scabbard (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
The hilts of Mughal-style court daggers were frequently fashioned from semiprecious hard stones, intricately carved and inlaid with gold and jewels. Two more carved-stone hilts may be seen to the left. While such opulent daggers certainly could be used in hand-to-hand combat, they were largely ornamental. Presented to military commanders and other officials, they were worn as badges of royal favor and became one of the many sumptuous elements of court costume.
Nasli and Alice Heeramaneck Collection, Gift of Paul Mellon
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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