An Indian gauntlet sword (pata) captured from Tipu Sultan's palace at Seringapatam, South India, late 18th century

the European straight double-edged blade is rivetted at the forte to a pair of palmette-form langets which act as reinforcement plates extending from the gauntlet, the gauntlet modelled as a stylised head with raised eyes, eyebrows, nose and moustache, the grip beneath formed as a straight cross-bar rivetted to the sides of the gauntlet, a further arched bar at the open end hooks into open lugs to hold the forearm in the gauntlet balanced against the weight of the blade, with a plaque inscribed 'Found on the City Walls: Presented to Lt. Col. George William Mignan HEIC, Seringapatam 1799', forked tongue-shaped attachments to sides

Found on the city walls of Tipu Sultan's fortress at Seringapatam, and presented as part of the spoils of war to Lt. Col. George William Mignan, 1799

In general good condition, some abrasion to surface and pitting and patination consistent with age, 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."

A similar gauntlet sword forms part of the Clive of India Collection at Powis Castle (see Treasures from India: The Clive Collection at Powis Castle, London, 1987, pp.52-3, no.47)