- 597
An important royal Mughal Executioner's Sword (tegha) inscribed to Emperor Akbar II, India, 1222-4 AH/ 1807-10 AD
Estimate
30,000 - 40,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- steel
the thick curved steel blade with gold-inlaid inscriptions to both sides, the silver hilt with characteristic broad pommel and hemispherical quillon terminals, the pommel with openwork abstract undulating lines, the knuckle-guard culminating in a growling tiger-head
Condition
overall in relatively good condition, scratches and patination on the blade, some rubbing to the hilt and one minor missing section to the pommel, 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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
inscriptions
On one side:
The Persian inscriptions on this sword are in verse form in praise of the Mughal Emperor Akbar II (r.1221-53 AH/ 1806-37 AD) and his victory over his enemies, also stating that it was made during his first regnal year.
On the edge:
Qur'an, chapter LXI (al-Saff), part of verse 13.
On the other side:
Persian verses giving the date once in abjad which adds up to 1224 AH/1809-10 AD) and ending with the date as 'Year 1222 AH (1807-08 AD)'
The Emperor Akbar II came to power on 7 Ramadan 1221 AH (18 November 1806 AD). It is possible that he had his enthronement in 1222, however, the explanation for the wrong abjad dating is unclear.