Silver Marwari Tulwar
Origin: Marwar Region
Date: 19th century
Length: 88cm
Materials: Steel, Wootz, Silver, Wood and Velvet
Reference: TSWMT
Status: Available
A nice Marwari type sword with wootz blade.
THIS EXAMPLE
Every sword has a key feature, whether it be the blade type of hilt decoration. For this sword, it has it all! The hilt is similar to the Rajput court swords and is of a marwari type. Covering the hilt is a sheet of thick silver overlay with has been engraved with floral foliage. The disk pommel features the traditional sunburst design which is a nod to Surya, the Sun God. The hilt exhibits approx. 90% of its silver work, which is a very good amount given the age of the sword.
The blade is of traditional form with a slight curve but an active and sharp edge. The entire length of the blade shows an active Indian wootz pattern with a tight and prominent swirls; making it appealing to the eye, but also very durable - as wootz was the chosen steel for most indian arms and armour.
Accompanying the sword is a new wooden scabbard, wrapped in a blue cotton fabric. The blue provides a nice contrast to the silver work on the hilt and makes it stand out. The tip of the scabbard is secured with a steel chape.
Published in Elgood, Arms & Armour at the Jaipur Court: The Royal Collection, p. 127, cat. no. 86 is an example with similar gold decoration.
CONCLUSION
Overall, a very nice example of a Indian tulwar with a nice hilt and wootz blade. The hilt is of a sought after form and in a very good state.
