I doubt that the hilt is a 'Tipu hilt', as I dont remember to have seen a horse head on any of the hilts attributed to Tipu. 
The way the ears are turned points towards a Marwari breed. 
A hilt attributed to South India, possible Maysore 18th century can be seen in 'A Passion for Indian Arms' pp. 266-268.
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
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