Pichangatti for comments
 

I have been meaning to post this for a while.
I remember from a previous thread that it is pronounced differently by the Coorgs, but it took me years to learn how to spell it this way, so I'm not changing now :p

Blade is 19 1/2 cm long and almost 5 mm thick along the back
Overall length is 33 cm
All very thick silver mounts.
The chain itself is a work of art. Solid silver except for the "grooming " tools at the end.
Any thoughts on age ?
I bought it in 91 from an antiques dealer in England. Unfortunatey he had no idea of how or when it arrived here.

All comments appreciated
Regards
Royston

Superb looking piece!!!
 

A great looking knife Royston,

I'd love to add one to the collection and you have now set a bench mark :), gorgeous silver work!!!

The chain fitting is a stunner with a manicure set attached, looks like a nail cleaner, tweezers, ear wax scoop and some other "tools"....drrrroooolllllll!!!

How does it feel in the hand? The parrot head looks like it would hold to the hand nicely when used.

You certainly have a gorgeous diverse collection of arms.

Gav

Rarity
 

A very beautiful and genuine piece. Zoomorphic pommels are very rare on Pichangattis. Congrats.

A Coorgi would call it 'Peechekatthi'

Parrot
 

With regards to the parrot head, I see this "style" in a number of weapons, one that comes to mind is a Parang Nabur in Stones, page 482, figure 614.1
It was also very common and late 19th century walking canes....

Is there something special about parrots to include them in the hilts of knives and swords?

Gav

I believe this is the finest and most complete one to date to show up on our forum. Congrats!

Parrot Head
 

Gav,
Yes, parrots and horse heads are a very common feature on Indian hilts. Ram and lion heads are also seen.

But this is the first Pichangetti I have seen with a parrot head hilt.

There could always be more that may have escaped my eyes.

The parrot in India represents the vehicle of the Hindu God of Love - 'Kama'. It represents the feeling of love and gentleness, quite the opposite of the instruments of war.

But then, the romantic rose is a favorite adornment on Indian hilts after the poppy and the Iris ;-)

Nidhi