Lot 215: An Indian Ceremonial Tabar Axe, 19th/20th Century

An Indian ceremonial tabar axe, crafted from iron or steel. This elaborate metal polearm features a broad, crescent-shaped axe blade extensively adorned with intricate scrolling vegetal or floral engraving. A central cartouche on the blade is inscribed with Arabic calligraphy translating to: “There is no hero but Ali, there is no sword but Dhul-Fiqar.” The reverse of the axe head presents a complex arrangement of decorative spikes and a spear-like point. The substantial metal shaft displays a pronounced spiral-fluted design along its length, culminating in a decorative spherical finial.