Large South Indian Katar
Origin: India (South India - Deccan)
Date: 18th century
Length: 60cm
Materials: Wootz, Steel, Wood and cotton
Reference: TSWLSIK
Status: Available
A substantially large South Indian Wootz fighting Katar with chiselled hilt.
INTRODUCING SOUTH INDIAN KATARS
South Indian Katars were notorious for having imported European Blades and chiselled or flat handle bar designs. The blades were held together with two langets, either side of the blade, often decorated in silver koftgari or etched with floral designs.
SOUTH INDIAN KATAR DESIGN
The side bars are crafted of a chiseled iron with fantastic sculptural qualities. The side bars are large, which provides a protective aspect (to cover the wrist) but also gives the Katar stability and real ‘warrior’ character. The handle bars are flat and provide a timeless look to the Katar.
THE BLADE
At the base of the blade, there are two langets that cover the beginning portion of the blade. These provide an aesthetic appeal to the Katar, but also a functional purpose of holding the blade firm and tight. These types of langets were a common factor of South Indian Katars. The langets are very nicely chiseled with a floral patterning. The blade is large, without any fullers or grooves. Still, the blade is long and slender and made of a highly tempered Indian wootz steel which is extremely solid and shows great character and age.
The Katar is accompanied with a wooden scabbard, wrapped in orange cotton fabric.
CONCLUSION
Overall, an original and nice example of a rare type of South Indian 18th century Katar. A true example of a fighting Katar with a long and slender blade and great sculptural qualities. The simplicity is key for this Katar and it really gives this a unique and historic feel. There is no minimal pitting and no damage. All the details are still very prominent.
