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A Pair of Unusual Mughal Archer’s Thumb Rings.
Steel, brass (gold ?).
India.
Late 18th / Early 19th Century.
PROVENANCE:
Ex John Harwood, India, 2005.
Ex Private collection.
The bow ring worn by archers on the thumb had a primarily functional use, but they were often very decorative as well, as hunting game with a bow and arrow was often a royal sport.
The advantage of the eastern archer’s thumb ring over that of the European practice of using the leather covered tips of three fingers is that it improves the handling of the bow and arrow, and increases the range and steadies the flight of the arrow, very similar to the actions achieved by using a spear thrower. The closer the feathers are to the nock of the arrow the greater the distance the arrow will travel, and the steadier its path.
Dimensions
3.5cm high - 1⅓ ins highThe BADA Standard
- Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
- Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
- Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
- Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
- Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees
