Gilt Tulwar
Origin: North India
Date: 19th century blade/late 19th century hilt
Length: 70cm
Materials: Steel, Gold, Wootz, wood and velvet
Reference: TSWGFT
Status: Available
A Gilt Tulwar with a Wootz made for a child.
THIS EXAMPLE
The hilt of this tulwar is truly sublime. The steel hilt is finely decorated with gold (gilt), with a range of flowers and motifs covering the entire hilt. The pommel features individual lotus flowers, with the middle of the hilt featuring a winding vine tendril which expands around the hilt. The work is fine, deep engraved, and really stands out. The gold gilt is 98% in tact, which is very rare on the current market.
The wootz steel extends to a considerable length (given it is for a child) from the hilt and seems to have a burnished cutting edge under the historical age. The wootz patterns are visible but the blade could benefit from a clean. Towards the top of the blade, their is a scarf weld, a sign associated with wootz blades and the warrior classes, Rajputs. Left in its original condition.
The sword is complete with its scabbard covered in blue velvet with a gold trim running along the centre. Very minor play in hilt and blade joint but is secure.
CONCLUSION
Overall a scarce example of a childs sword with a gilt hilt and wootz blade. A fantastic addition for seasoned collector looking for the rarer pieces to add to their colleciton.
*final image shows hilt size comparison with another tulwar (not included)
