Now thats what I'm talkin' about!!!!
This is tulwar research of the most quintessant degree!!! and characteristic of the kind of work done by Jens.
This magnificent example, with well researched data in the markings and motif reflect that the sword is from Mewar in Udaipur and the period, as well as the inscriptions revealing the syncretic associations of faiths clearly extant in diplomatic parlance of the time.
While this example seems to support the claims by the late Dr. Pant as this being an Udaipur form of hilt, there still needs to be other corroborating examples with this magnitude of provenance to establish this form conclusively as to this region alone.
We can however state, that generally these types of diamond shape (peaked grip) hilt with square end langets and very large dish pommel are likely produced in Udaipur regions.
Greg, often with identification of these types of examples, it is best to classify them as 'of the form typically attributed to Udaipur' for example.
The other forms discussed are typically with less definition, and we always try to find these kinds of provenance on forms to be joined with other similar examples and hopefully establishing at least a degree of guidelines for further research.
The quest never ends
Absolutely magnificent Jens!!! Thank you so much for providing such an excellent example to perfectly illustrate this research.
All very best regards,
Jim