Steel Katar (Push Dagger) with Inlaid Silver Elephant Motifs
Date19th century
PeriodBritish India/Princely States
MediumSilver, steel
Dimensions16 1/2 x 4 x 5/8 in. (41.9 x 10.2 x 1.6 cm)
ClassificationsMetalwork
Object number51.32
DescriptionThis katar has balustrade-like crossbars and delicate silver-inlaid decorations of elephants on its damascened (watered) steel body. Such careful attention to detail and fine craftsmanship make it seem fanciful and ornate – but this dagger is nonetheless and imposing, deadly weapon. In addition to the strength of its steel body when thrust into prey, it has a scissor-like action of secondary blades which pop out when the crossbars are squeezed to inflict incredible damage.On View
On viewCollections
18th - 19th century
19th century
18th - 19th century
18th - 19th century
18th - 19th century
19th - 20th century
19th - 20th century
