Knife and sheath c. 1870 - 1875
Silver, gold, wood and rubies | 28.5 x 4.4 x 3.1 cm (whole object) | RCIN 11297
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A knife or pichangatti with a blade made of silver and a hilt made of gold, cast to form a parrot's head and inlaid with rubies for eyes. The parrot head is chased with floral and granulated patterning. The scabbard is made of wood with mounts of gold chased with floral patterning. The pichangatti is a ceremonial knife worn by men in Kodagu and is designed to be useful for daily activities. A gold chain and tassel is attached to the mount which carries a set of grooming implements such as a file, tweezers and an ear scraper.
Provenance
Presented to King Edward VII, when Prince of Wales, during his tour of India in 1875-76 by the inhabitants of Coorg [Kodagu]
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Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Silver, gold, wood and rubies
Measurements
28.5 x 4.4 x 3.1 cm (whole object)
Alternative title(s)
Dagger and scabbard
Place of Production
Kodagu [Karnataka]
