17 C. Dagger Handle with Yali Head Pommel

Yali is a mysterious creature in the Indian mythology, mostly in central and south India. It is found on many art works from the 16 C. and later. It is described as a creature combining features of lion and/or elephant and/or horse in various combinations and shapes. It is considered to be stronger and more powerful than a lion and a tiger and hence its shape was added to daggers and swords handles.

The dagger handle offered here is heavy cast bronze. The pommel is shaped as the Yali monster head with fully opened mouth and stretching out tongue. Faceted grip body and chiseled foliate form langets. Deccan. Early 17 C. or about.

Length 6 1/2 inches (16 cm). Very good condition. Authentic and rare dagger handle