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A Small Jade Dagger with the Head of an Ibex.
India, 18th century.
Jade, steel, ruby and gold.
24cm long.
The hilt of the pale green jade is carved with an ibex’s head. Features including the recurved, transversely ridged horns and the long, pointed beard beneath the slightly open mouth. The gold-framed ruby eyes as well as the hardness of gold reflects the exclusivity of the work. The straight blade is single edged, typical of this dagger type.
Daggers with animal heads probably first appeared in the early sixteenth century at the Mughal court, where they were often used as gifts from princes to other princes or their subjects. They can be seen depicted in manuscript paintings, for example, The Windsor Padshahnama.
Comparative material:
The Furusiyya Art Foundation Collection (IR-332), UK.
The 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
