18th-century Indian tulwar with a silver koftgari hilt, an antique edged weapon associated with the martial traditions of India and the broader Indo-Persian arms culture of the Mughal and post-Mughal periods. Tulwars of this type were widely carried by cavalrymen, officers, and noble retainers across the Indian subcontinent.
The sword features a heavy, curved, tapering steel blade with a double-edged point designed for slashing combat from both mounted and foot positions. The blade is marked with a “”Rumi”-style design on one side, typically associated with Indo-Persian and Turkic weaponry, and an Indo-Persian style crown on the reverse.
The hilt follows the traditional tulwar form, incorporating a disc pommel with short quillons and is decorated with silver koftgari work, a decorative metal inlay technique in which fine silver overlay is applied to the steel surface to create floral and scrolling patterns. Koftgari decoration was commonly used on higher-status Indian weapons, reflecting both artistic craftsmanship and the prestige of the owner. The contrast between polished steel and silver ornamentation gives the weapon a distinctive ceremonial and aesthetic quality while retaining its practical military form.
Tulwars remained among the most recognisable swords of the Indian subcontinent throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, influenced by Persian blade styles and adapted to local warfare traditions. Examples with surviving silver koftgari decoration are particularly valued for their decorative appeal and historical association with Indian arms manufacture.
Manufactured in steel with silver koftgari ornamentation, this example represents a classic form of Indian edged weapon suitable for collectors of antique arms, Indo-Persian militaria, and ethnographic artefacts.
Dimensions
Approx. 88cm overall length
Approx. 75cm blade length
Condition
Good overall antique condition, with age-related wear consistent with period use and storage. The blade shows surface marks and areas of patina, as well as damage from being in a vice. Silver koftgari decoration remains visible with some expected wear and minor loss in places. Hilt fittings remain secure. No major structural damage or modern repairs are evident.
