South India
Spearhead seventeenth century
Steel | 49.5 x 7.4 x 7.5 cm (whole object) | RCIN 37537
Saloon Corridor , Sandringham House
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A spearhead or sang with a slightly curved steel blade that is decorated with pierced and chiselled decoration. The long tubular socket ringed by thick projecting flanges. The base of the blade has been pierced to show the heads of two makara (dragon-like mythical creatures) and a kirtimukha (face of glory) in the centre which is more pronounced when the blade faces downwards. The style of this decoration is linked with the Nayaka kingdom (1529-1736). During the rule of the Nayakas, art and architecture flourished in the region of what is now modern-day Tamil Nadu.
Provenance
Presented to King Edward VII, when Prince of Wales, during his tour of India in 1875-76 by Jagadveera Rama Kumara Ettapa, Zamindar of Ettayapuram. Whilst en route to Madurai from Tuticorin on 10 December 1875, the Prince briefly stopped at Kovilpatty for lunch with the Zamindar where this spear was presumably presented along with other gifts.
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Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Steel
Measurements
49.5 x 7.4 x 7.5 cm (whole object)
Category
Object type(s)
