Lot 235: An Indian Mughal Mother of Pearl Dagger Hilt

An Indian Mughal mother-of-pearl dagger hilt. This intricately crafted hilt is composed of numerous small, overlapping pieces of iridescent mother-of-pearl shell, forming a scale-like pattern in varied hues of cream, gold, and subtle greens. The form features a bulbous, slightly downturned top that gradually widens into a flared base. An oblong opening is visible at the narrower, internal end, designed to accommodate a blade’s tang. Such mother-of-pearl work is characteristic of the Mughal period in India, often associated with the Gujarat region or Indo-Portuguese trade.

L: Approximately 14.5cm