Extremely Rare Vijayanagara, Chakravarti Short Sword
15th-17th century, possibly Madurai. Broad, slightly curved blade, with 8 fine fullers, typical 16th century Vijayanagara weapons. The forte swelling to meet the hilt. Pierced on one side representing chakra, the other side with relief carved scrolling bud. The silvered steel hilt with tri-lobed pommel which Elgood (2004) p.122 explains thus, 'The three buds symbolise the Trimurti comprising: Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara, another name for Shiva'. Multi-fullered knuckle-bow terminating in a Makara head. (L49cm)

PROVENANCE:
From the collection of the late Warren Mallard

LITERATURE:
Robert Hales 'Islamic and Oriental Arms and Armour: A Lifetime's Passion,' 2013. p.71, No.154; Robert Elgood 'Hindu Arms and Ritual,' 2004, chapter 10 'The Royal Vijayanagara swords and daggers from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries'.

Estimate $15,000-25,000