Bidspirit auction | LARGE 18TH-19TH C. SRI LANKAN

LARGE 18TH-19TH C. SRI LANKAN CEYLON PIHA KAETTA KNIFE DAGGER - Large and impressive Sri Lankan (Ceylonese) piha kaetta knife or dagger, dating to the late 18th to 19th century. A traditional Sinhalese edged weapon distinguished by its broad, heavy single-edged steel blade and highly decorative hilt. The blade is of characteristic broad form, widening toward the upper portion and terminating in an upswept point. The forte incorporates shaped and incised decorative elements. The elaborate curved hilt is finely carved in high relief with traditional foliate and stylized decorative motifs, further embellished with engraved brass mounts and fittings. Accompanied by its carved wooden scabbard, shaped specifically to accommodate the unusually broad blade and retaining metal reinforcement at the lower end. The upper portion terminates in a pronounced carved decorative finial. Piha kaetta were distinctive traditional knives of Sri Lanka, historically associated with Sinhalese craftsmanship and often incorporating elaborate carving and metalwork. The substantial proportions and extensive decoration of the present example make it particularly visually striking. Overall age-related wear throughout, including oxidation and surface pitting to the blade, patination and wear to the metal fittings, and expected abrasions, losses and weathering to the carved hilt and wooden scabbard. Total length (inside scabbard if present) : 14 3/4”, Blade length : 8 1/2”; 1 1/2” wide. For additional images please visit sofedesignauctions.com Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com ***All lots are sold as-is and where is. No statement regarding age, condition, kind, value, or quality of a lot, whether made orally at the auction or at any other time, or in writing in this catalog or elsewhere, shall be construed to be an express or implied warranty, representation, or assumption of liability. All sales are final, and SOFE AUCTIONS do not give refunds. SOFE AUCTIONS ARE PLEASED TO OFFER IN-HOUSE PACKAGING AND SHIPPING SERVICES. PACKAGING SERVICE ONLY: start at $25 and up depending on your item/s. Available IN-HOUSE shipping is within the USA of small, medium, semi-large, NON-FRAGILE items. PLEASE SELECT IN-HOUSE SHIPPING FOR FAST, PROFESSIONAL PACKING AND SHIPPING.SOFE WON'T ship items in glass frames, large fragile items or large sculptures. After paying for your item/s please call SOFE at 469-268-1177, or email us at info@sofedesignauctions.com to request a shipping quote. All item/s will be shipped via UPS or FedEx, FULLY insured, unless insurance declined in writing by the buyer. SOFE AUCTIONS do not use USPS. We do have a list of suggested third-party shippers. Please visit our webpage for a list of recommended shippers.