16 C. South Indian Rapier

Such rapier swords from the 16 C and onward are may be the first Indian swords that adopted European blades and represent a good mix of Europe and India arms.

This is a good exemplar with regard to the shape, materials and construction. Unfortunately not in good condition and not a museum piece. The European blade, probably Portuguese, long and narrow but of good thickness and in spite the age and condition maintained the shape. Nice fuller up to third of the blade length. The blade is riveted to long langets ending in a steel up folding disk cross guard decorated with two parrots at both sides. Cylindrical grip with large ball shaped pommel. Two pairs of bronze dishes are added to the pommel spike and the langets.

Blade 28inches (82 cm). Total length 39 inches (99 cm). Heavily patinated and corroded. Losses to the large disk cross guard and the grip.

Similar sword in a much better condition are discussed in Robert Elgood book Hindu arms and ritual page 95. Another one in Philippe Missillier: “Splendeur Des Armes Orientales” Item 120