Bidspirit auction | Antique Mughal Indian All-Steel Fighting

Antique Mughal Indian All-Steel Fighting Axe / War Hammer with Gilt Floral Decoration and Blade Scabbard - An unusual Indo-Persian or Mughal Indian all-steel fighting axe / war hammer, probably dating to the 18th–19th century. Constructed with a long tubular steel haft terminating in a rounded pommel and fitted with a compact, heavily built head combining a downward-curving blade with opposing projections, giving the weapon both cutting and striking capability. The head, socket and portions of the haft retain extensive gilt floral and foliate decoration, arranged in panels and bands typical of Indo-Persian ornamental metalwork. The square-section central block is particularly well decorated, with additional ornament continuing onto the blade and adjacent fittings. Of particular interest is the fitted steel scabbard covering the axe blade, an uncommon survival on weapons of this type. The scabbard is formed to follow the tapering profile of the blade and is retained by a narrow collar near its mouth. The weapon displays an attractive dark age patina with scattered oxidation, rubbing and losses to the gilt decoration consistent with considerable age and use. A distinctive example combining functional martial construction with refined Indo-Persian decorative work. Total length (inside scabbard if present) : 22 1/4”, Blade length : 6 1/4”. 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.