A rare Mughal or Deccani steel dagger with parrot-form pommel, India, circa 1600

the curved, tapering blade fluted and grooved with swollen tip, the broad, angular quillons with hanging palmettes attached by rivets to the forte of the blade, the narrow, faceted baluster grip with central ring moulding rising to a bi-furcated pommel modelled in the form of a pair of confronting birds with palmette wings and a single parrot-head finial, the quillons, pommel and grip hatched to receive gilded decoration of which traces remain, leather-covered wood scabbard

in good overall condition, pitting and patination to surface, rubbing to gilding, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Evidence of surface gilding suggests that this dagger was intended as a showy, courtly weapon; and indeed the quality of design and casting is commensurate with a prestigious commission for an individual of high rank or means. Furthermore, the gouged eye-sockets of the parrot-head finial bear traces of adhesive resin indicating that precious settings, perhaps rubies or spinels, were originally employed to further enrich the design.