18th c RARE Mughal Ivory Horse Head Dagger Handle MUSEUM PIECE!

A very rare and extremely finely carved Mughal (Mogul) ivory dagger handle, dating to the late 18th century. This example depicts a royal horse with an extravagant maine and beaming, large eyes. Everything about this piece is precise and detailed, and is of the finest craftsmanship, even finer than the best Mughal, Indian, and Chinese examples you will find sold at Sotheby's, Christies, and Bonhams. These daggers were carved for the highest class in 18th and 19th century India. The horse seems to be breathing air through his nostrils, as his maine flows in the breeze, parted to one side. The dagger is further decorated in a flower and scroll motif. The inner handle is carved with ridges to form the grip, and there are light marks from use (hundreds of years of built up oils from fingers grasping the ivory) - This dagger was actually used, and this is a genuine antique! Later mounted safely onto a modern display stand.

Condition: Excellent! No damages or repairs! The horse's right ear is slightly shorter than the left - I believe the artist carved it this way, but please take a look at the photos!

Measurements: Ivory handle measures 5.5 in x 2.5 in (14.5 cm x 6 cm)

Item ID: 123

$3,650 USD

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