My first Tulwar

[Jim McDougall]

It is great to have some excellent observations and discussion coming in on this tulwar!
The more I look at this sword the more intriguing it becomes. It is again very difficult to accurately date these tulwars, except often by the patination, as well as the blade itself sometimes as being considered here regarding its potential for combat.
With regard to the chiseled decoration on the obverse of the blade here, I would like to note discussions several years ago concerning the trade blades with chiseled panels of Islamic calligraphy on one side. I believe the Persian lion and cartouche on the other side suggested Assad Adullah. These were widely distributed around first quarter 19th c. and are found on weapons from the shashka to I believe Piso Podang as well as in India on some Mughal tulwars. These Mughal tulwars with these blades may offer a clue.

Since the Rajputs were often Mughal allies in degree, perhaps the impressive chiseled Islamic motif inspired a Rajput interpretation carrying a florally decorated motif more in line with Hindu symbolism. This idea may be of course somewhat effected by the fact that the chiseled hunting scenes on many Indian sword blades was well established. Still it is an idea worth considering since this is clearly not a hunting sword.

It is interesting to note that with Caucasian shashkas and thier mounts, as well on many other weapons, the decoration on the outside is often more intricate and elaborate, while the reverse usually quite simple.

What I meant by the sword being carried blade upright, face forward, is indeed the salutory position. The Rajputs were Kshatria and were profoundly observant of codes of honor and protocol in battle. They were of complex clan lineages, and it would take considerable research to discover particular symbolism that might apply to these clans, however it is known that the three basic lines descend from Hindu gods of sun, moon and fire. We do know that botanical symbolism was often employed in warfare, as described in my previous note concerning "Hindu Arms and Ritual" by Elgood.

Perhaps this may be the tulwar of a proud Rajput warrior of the early 19th c. with decorative motif that he might display in salute to his foe as he entered combat. Of course, the motif may have imbued the blade symbolically with powers associated with the flower depicted, if that can be identified.

Whatever the case, I have to say again, it is really good to see the weapons of India being discussed more, there is so much more research needed!

All best regards,
Jim