India, 18th century
Dimensions: 34.5 cm
Mughal dagger with white jade handle and carved floral decorations
This Mughal dagger from India is a typical weapon of the aristocracy of the 18th century Mughal Empire. Mughal daggers were as indispensable in close combat as swords, shields and spears, enabling the Mughal army to become one of the most dominant and powerful forces in India. The handle of the 34.5 cm long dagger is made of white jade with delicately carved floral motifs. The smooth, translucent white jade, a colour and material that was very rare in the region, contrasts aesthetically with the intricately designed blade of high-quality damascus steel. During the forging process, particular care was taken to widen the tip of the blade so that it could easily go through the chain mail. This dagger served not only as a weapon, but also as a symbol of status, sophistication and even ethnicity, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Mughal era.
